Apple (AAPL, Financial) announced at the WWDC 2025 that macOS 26 "Tahoe" will be the last version supporting Intel (INTC) processors, marking the end of a 20-year chip partnership. The shift signifies Apple's complete transition to Apple Silicon. Matthew Firlik, Apple's Senior Director of Developer Relations, emphasized the potential for innovation with Apple Silicon and confirmed the finality of support for Intel Macs with macOS Tahoe.
The collaboration between Apple and Intel began in 2006 with the release of the first MacBook Pro featuring an Intel Core processor. This partnership aimed to build the best personal computers. However, with performance and power efficiency becoming critical in chip design, Apple changed its strategy. In 2020, Apple announced its transition to Apple Silicon, gradually phasing out Intel chips.
Despite Apple's initial two-year transition plan, Intel Macs like the 2019 Mac Pro and 2018 Mac Mini were sold until 2023. Although macOS 26 "Tahoe" will be the last to support Intel, these Macs will receive security updates until 2028, giving users ample time to transition.
