Intel Mac Support: Approaching End of Life
Apple's transition to Apple Silicon, initiated in 2020 and completed in 2023, has raised questions about the remaining lifespan of Intel-based Macs. Apple typically provides around five years of software updates, suggesting the final Intel-compatible macOS version might arrive in 2025.
The current macOS Sequoia supports a limited range of Intel Macs, primarily released between 2018 and 2020. This includes the 2018 Mac mini, 2019-2020 iMacs, 2017 iMac Pro, 2020 MacBook Air, 2018-2020 MacBook Pros, and the 2019 Mac Pro. The extended support for the 2018 MacBook Pro is likely due to its shared chipset with the 2019 and 2020 models. The iMac Pro's continued support, despite exceeding the typical support window, suggests Apple's commitment to professional users. For insights into Apple's transition and its impact, explore articles like Macs Rise in the Enterprise.
macOS 16, expected in 2025, will likely be the last version supporting Intel Macs, ensuring at least five years of software updates for most models. However, some older models like the 2019 iMac and 2018 Mac mini might be excluded. It's anticipated that macOS 17, arriving in 2026, will be exclusively for Apple Silicon Macs, marking six years since the transition began and over three years since the last Intel Mac was sold. This shift aligns with Apple's broader hardware and software strategy, as discussed in One Mac or Two? Finding the Right Setup in the Cloud Era.
Intel Mac users should anticipate approximately two years of remaining support with the latest macOS versions. While security patches may extend beyond this period, upgrading to an Apple Silicon Mac is advisable. Numerous deals are available, making the transition more accessible. For those interested in the latest Apple Silicon offerings, resources like 2025 iPad Air: New Keyboard, Display, and Chip Upgrades? provide valuable information.