Apple Ends Major Updates for Intel-Based Macs with macOS Tahoe

Apple has officially announced that macOS Tahoe, scheduled for release this fall, will be the last major software update supporting Intel-based Macs. This decision marks a significant milestone in Apple's transition away from Intel processors, which began with the introduction of its own Apple silicon chips in 2020.

The transition started when Apple launched its first in-house processor, the M1 chip, in 2020 and culminated with the release of the Mac Pro featuring Apple silicon in 2023. Since then, Apple has been gradually phasing out Intel-based Macs from its product lineup.

Matthew Firlik, Apple's senior director of developer relations, emphasized during the WWDC Platforms State of the Union keynote that Apple silicon enables innovations that were previously unimaginable, and the company will now focus all its efforts on this platform.

Intel-based Macs that are compatible with macOS Tahoe, such as the 16-inch MacBook Pro from 2019 and the 13-inch MacBook Pro with four Thunderbolt 3 ports from 2020, will continue to receive security updates for three years. However, they will no longer get new features or major software enhancements.

Apple’s new macOS Tahoe update introduces the Liquid Glass design language, a more powerful Spotlight search, support for iPhone’s Live Activities, and a new Phone app. These features will be exclusive to Apple silicon Macs, underscoring the company’s commitment to its own chip architecture.

Why This Matters to Developers and Users

For developers, this announcement is a clear signal to prioritize Apple silicon optimization. The performance and capabilities unlocked by Apple’s in-house chips open new doors for app innovation and user experience enhancements. For users, it means that to access the latest macOS features and improvements, upgrading to Apple silicon hardware is essential.

Apple’s phased approach, continuing security updates for Intel Macs for three more years, provides a transition period but clearly signals the future direction of the Mac ecosystem.

Devices Compatible with macOS Tahoe

• MacBook Air with Apple silicon (2020 and later)
• MacBook Pro with Apple silicon (2020 and later)
• MacBook Pro (16-inch, 2019)
• MacBook Pro (13-inch, 2020, four Thunderbolt 3 ports)
• iMac (2020 and later)
• Mac mini (2020 and later)
• Mac Studio (2022 and later)
• Mac Pro (2019 and later)

Apple’s decision to end major updates for Intel Macs underscores the importance of embracing Apple silicon for future-proofing software and hardware investments. Developers and users alike should consider this transition a pivotal moment in the evolution of the Mac ecosystem.