Over the past three years, analysis has focused on Apple’s software support for Intel-based Macs as it transitions to Apple Silicon. The key questions were whether Apple reduced updates for Intel Macs and how long users could expect ongoing support.
Findings show Apple has generally decreased software support for Intel Macs during the transition. With macOS 26 Tahoe, Apple will release the final major macOS version supporting Intel processors.
Importantly, Apple has announced this in advance. Security updates for these Intel Macs will continue for two years after macOS 27 is released next year. This aligns with Apple’s longstanding but informal policy on security updates, providing users some predictability.
With the transition complete, a comprehensive review compares this Intel phase-out with Apple’s earlier shift from PowerPC to Intel two decades ago and considers what this means for Apple Silicon support.
Data compiled includes every PowerPC and Intel Mac since 1998, detailing launch and discontinuation dates, initial macOS versions, and final supported macOS releases.