Apple introduces many new software features at its developer conference every year. This year, he did not break this tradition and introduced the new version of MacOS, MacOS 26. This MacOS 26, which has Tahoe code name, came to the fore as a sign of a radical distinction on the operating system side. For Intel processor Mac models, it is officially announced that the end of the road appears.
Apple said in a statement that MacOS 26 will be the last major system update for Intel -based Macs. Together with MacOS Tahoe, these devices will be able to access all new features available. But this support is not unlimited; Security updates will only last for three years. As of 2028, Intel Mac models will be completely removed from the software ecosystem.
This announcement was forwarded to developers at the Platform State of the Union session after the WWDC event. Apple wants developers to move from Intel processor Macs to Apple Silicon architecture. Because this transformation on the software side is now an irreversible path. Apple aims to make the transition as soft as possible in terms of application compatibility.
The last ring of MacOS 26 transformation
With the introduction of the first Apple Silicon processor Macs in 2020, the Intel period actually began to end. Apple’s own ARM -based chips offer higher performance with lower energy consumption. This architectural difference has influenced the entire product family over time. MacOS 26 is the last link of this transformation on the software side.
Despite this, Apple announced that Rosetta will maintain translation technology up to MacOS 27. Thanks to this technology, old applications with X86 architecture can work smoothly on Apple Silicon devices. After MacOS 27, Rosetta will continue to be used for old software, such as certain games. In other words, Rosetta’s role in terms of current application support will be limited.
A few devices stand out among the latest Intel Mac models that can get the MacOS Tahoe version. Introduced in 2019, the 16 -inch MacBook Pro, 2020 Model 13 Inch MacBook Pro, 27 -inch imac and 2019 Mac Pro is the same year. Although full feature support is provided for these devices, the end of the update cycle has been reached. These users will now be able to protect their systems with security patches.
On the other hand, Apple’s limitation of this transition to a three -year security support shows that users want to spread the transition to the new hardware over time. Although the support continues on the software side, the user experience will gradually become limited. It is more likely that new applications are only compatible with Apple Silicon. This may cause Intel Mac users to fall behind in terms of productivity.
In addition, Apple aims to facilitate the transition process with its support and documents for developers. Developer tools are now directly focused on Apple Silicon compatibility. This shows that Intel support on the software side will gradually disappear. The narrowing of Rosetta’s future role makes this change even more clarified.