The End of an Era: macOS 26 Tahoe is the Last Stop for Intel Macs

Apple officially announced at WWDC 2025 that macOS 26 Tahoe will be the final major operating system update for Intel-based Macs. This means macOS 27 (expected in 2026) and beyond will run exclusively on Apple Silicon (M-series) Macs.

What This Means for Your Intel Mac

• macOS 26 Tahoe is the last major update: If your Intel Mac is compatible, this will be its final big software upgrade.
• Security updates will continue: Apple will still provide critical security updates for eligible Intel Macs for at least three more years after macOS 26.
• No new features beyond Tahoe: Future features, like advanced Apple Intelligence capabilities, will only be available on Apple Silicon Macs.
• App compatibility: Most current apps will still work, but newer applications may eventually require an Apple Silicon Mac.
• Limited eligibility: Only specific Mac models will receive macOS 26 Tahoe.

macOS Tahoe-Compatible Macs:

• MacBook Air with Apple silicon (2020 and later)
• MacBook Pro with Apple silicon (2020 and later)
• MacBook Pro (16‑inch, 2019)
• MacBook Pro (13‑inch, 2020, four Thunderbolt 3 ports)
• iMac (2020 and later)
• Mac mini (2020 and later)
• Mac Studio (2022 and later)
• Mac Pro (2019 and later)

A complete breakdown of all macOS-Tahoe-compatible Macs can be found on Apple’s website.

Is It Time to Upgrade?

While your Intel Mac on macOS 26 Tahoe will function and stay secure for a few more years, users wanting the latest features, top performance, and long-term support should consider upgrading to an Apple Silicon Mac. These M-series chips offer significant leaps in speed, graphics, and battery life.

This move marks Apple’s full commitment to its custom silicon, ensuring a more unified and powerful future for Macs. If you own an Intel Mac, it’s time to start thinking about your next move.

Check out the Latest Tech News