macOS Tahoe: A Farewell to Intel-Based Macs
In a significant announcement during its annual WWDC keynote, Apple unveiled the upcoming macOS 26, also known as macOS Tahoe 26. This release will mark a pivotal moment, as it will be the final version to support Intel-based Macs. As reported by 9to5Mac, this transition signifies the end of an era for Intel-powered Apple computers.
The last Mac to feature an Intel processor was the previous-generation Mac Pro, which was succeeded in 2023 by the M2 Ultra-powered Mac Pro. The shift towards Apple Silicon began in earnest with the launch of the M1 series in 2020 and 2021, followed by the introduction of the M2, M3, and M4 series. Consequently, many Intel-based Macs have already found their way onto Apple’s vintage products list.
For those who still cherish their Intel-based machines, there is some solace in the fact that critical security updates will continue to be provided for a limited time. However, this support will eventually come to a close. Looking ahead, macOS 27—regardless of its eventual name—will exclusively cater to Apple Silicon Macs, specifically those powered by M1 and later processors.
It’s important to note that not all Macs currently running the existing version of macOS, Sequoia, will be eligible for the Tahoe update. Only those equipped with Intel’s ninth-generation Coffee Lake and Cascade Lake-based Xeon-W processors will be able to run Tahoe. This includes models such as the Mac Pro (2019), MacBook Pro (16-inch, 2019), MacBook Pro (13-inch, 2020 with four Thunderbolt 3 ports), and the iMac (Retina 5K, 27-inch, 2020), according to MacRumors. Unfortunately, this means that a considerable number of Intel Macs, including various 2018 and older MacBook Pro models, the iMac Pro, 21.5-inch iMacs, the MacBook Air (Retina, 13-inch, 2020), and older Mac mini computers, will not be able to upgrade to Tahoe.
Apple’s journey with Intel began in 2005, transitioning from PowerPC processors that had powered Macintosh computers since 1994. Over the years, Apple moved from 32-bit to 64-bit Intel processors, ultimately discontinuing support for 32-bit machines in 2011. While many Intel-based Macs remain capable and functional, users may want to consider transitioning to the faster, more efficient, and better-supported Apple Silicon. Fortunately, Apple’s lineup of new computers includes some of the most affordable yet powerful options available, catering to both laptop and desktop users.
Image credits: Apple
