During the keynote at Apple’s WWDC yesterday, the company announced the forthcoming launch of macOS Tahoe 26, the latest operating system upgrade for MacBook laptops and iMac desktops. This update is set to roll out in the fall and will mark the final software update for Intel-based Macs. Consequently, iMacs or MacBooks lacking an Apple silicon chip will no longer receive future software updates post-Tahoe.

If your laptop is equipped with an M1, M2, M3, or M4 chip, you’re safe. Certain Intel Macs from 2019 and 2020 may also upgrade to Tahoe. Older Intel Macs will still operate but will soon be considered obsolete.

This announcement is expected, as Apple has been transitioning away from Intel-based devices since the M1 chip debuted in 2020. With the introduction of the 2023 MacBook Pro M3, Apple has halted the production of new Intel Macs, further solidifying their move away from Intel.

Intel Macs that are compatible with Tahoe will continue to receive security updates for an additional three years. “Apple silicon allows us to accomplish feats that were once thought impossible, and it’s time for us to concentrate all of our focus and innovation there,” stated Matthew Firlik, Apple Senior Director of Developer Relations, during the WWDC keynote. “If you haven’t yet, now is the perfect moment to assist your users in transitioning to the Apple silicon versions of your applications.”

A comprehensive list of Macs compatible with macOS Tahoe can be found on Apple’s website. The list features:

– 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, featuring four Thunderbolt 3 ports)
– iMac (2020 and later)
– Mac mini (2020 and later)
– Mac Studio (2022 and later)
– Mac Pro (2019 and later)