TL;DR
Apple has confirmed it will not support Intel-based Macs in the upcoming macOS 27 release, marking the final step in its transition to Apple Silicon. Several older models will be left behind, ending support for Intel Macs.
Apple has officially announced that macOS 27 Golden Gate will not support any remaining Intel-based Macs, completing its transition to Apple Silicon. This decision affects several models, ending support for Intel processors on Mac devices.
During WWDC 2026, Apple revealed that macOS 27 will only be compatible with Macs powered by its own M-series chips, including the latest MacBook Air (M2), MacBook Pro (M2), Mac mini (M2), and Mac Studio (M2). The company confirmed that all Intel-based Macs released before 2020 will not receive the update, effectively ending software support for these devices.
The specific models confirmed to be left behind include the 16-inch MacBook Pro (2019), the 13-inch MacBook Pro (2020 with four Thunderbolt ports), the 2020 Retina 5K iMac, and the 2019 Mac Pro. Notably, the 2020 MacBook Pro with two Thunderbolt ports was already dropped from support last year, but the variant with four ports was supported until now. With the announcement of macOS 27, even that model will lose support.
This marks the culmination of Apple’s transition plan, which began in 2020 when the company announced it would shift from Intel chips to its own silicon across all Macs. Over the past few years, Apple replaced all Intel-based Macs with Apple Silicon models and gradually phased out software support for older Intel devices.
Implications of Dropping Intel Mac Support
This move signifies the final step in Apple’s shift to its own chip architecture, which promises better performance and efficiency. For users of older Intel Macs, it means they will no longer receive software updates, security patches, or new features from macOS 27 onward, potentially impacting device longevity and security. For the broader Mac ecosystem, it consolidates Apple’s hardware and software integration, but raises questions about the future support lifecycle of older devices.
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Background of Apple’s Transition to Apple Silicon
In 2020, Apple announced its plan to transition all Macs from Intel processors to its custom M-series chips, citing improved performance and power efficiency. Over the following years, the company released multiple Apple Silicon Macs, replacing models that previously ran on Intel. Gradually, Apple reduced software support for Intel Macs, with some models already discontinued from receiving updates. The recent announcement at WWDC 2026 confirms that no Intel-based Macs will be supported in macOS 27, completing the transition process that began three years ago.
“Apple’s decision to drop support for Intel Macs reflects its commitment to its own silicon and the end of an era for legacy hardware.”
— an anonymous researcher
“macOS 27 will deliver the best experience on Apple Silicon Macs, and support for Intel Macs will conclude with this release.”
— an Apple spokesperson
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Remaining Questions About Transition Impact
It is not yet clear how Apple will support users with Intel Macs post-2026, including potential security updates or extended support options. Additionally, the timeline for hardware obsolescence and whether some models might receive extended support remains uncertain.
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Next Steps for Mac Users and Apple
Users with Intel Macs are advised to consider upgrading to Apple Silicon models to continue receiving software updates and new features. Apple is expected to release macOS 27 in the fall, with further details on support and upgrade options announced closer to launch. The company will likely continue to focus on optimizing performance for Apple Silicon devices.
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Key Questions
Which Mac models will no longer support macOS 27?
The 16-inch MacBook Pro (2019), 13-inch MacBook Pro (2020 with four Thunderbolt ports), Retina 5K iMac (2020), and Mac Pro (2019) will not support macOS 27.
Will my Intel Mac still receive security updates after macOS 27?
Apple has not specified support policies post-2026; it is likely security updates will cease with the end of official support, but this remains unconfirmed.
Should I upgrade to an Apple Silicon Mac now?
If you want to continue receiving the latest software features and security patches, upgrading to an Apple Silicon Mac is recommended before macOS 27 launches.
How will this affect the longevity of older Intel Macs?
Without support for macOS 27, older Intel Macs may become less secure and less compatible with new software, potentially reducing their usability over time.
Is there a possibility of extended support for Intel Macs?
Currently, there is no indication that Apple will extend support beyond the announced cutoff, but future updates could change support policies.
Source: Lifehacker
