Apple Inc. has officially announced that macOS 27, expected to launch in late 2025, will mark the end of support for Intel-based Macs. The update will also retire Rosetta 2, the software layer that allows Intel applications to run on Apple Silicon processors.
Completion of the Apple Silicon Transition
This announcement concludes Apple’s multi-year migration from Intel processors to its own Apple Silicon architecture, which began in 2020 with the M1 chip. macOS 27 will be fully optimized for Apple Silicon, and Intel-powered Macs will no longer receive major system updates or security patches.
Phasing Out Rosetta 2
Rosetta 2, introduced to maintain compatibility during the transition, will be retired. As a result, Intel-only applications that haven’t been updated for Apple Silicon will no longer function on macOS 27 and future releases, potentially affecting users and developers with legacy software.
Implications for Developers and Users
Industry analysts view this move as a defining moment in Apple’s hardware independence. Ben Howard, a tech analyst at FutureTech Insights, said, “This is the final chapter in Apple’s hardware independence. They’re closing the Intel era and focusing entirely on performance, efficiency, and integration within their ecosystem.”
Developers are encouraged to transition their apps to Universal or ARM-native binaries ahead of macOS 27’s rollout. Intel Mac owners can continue using existing systems, but without updates or security support, most are expected to gradually switch to Apple Silicon devices to stay current.
Looking Ahead
Apple’s decision underscores its commitment to in-house silicon development. Future macOS versions and devices are expected to leverage the full potential of M-series and upcoming A-series desktop chips, delivering enhanced performance, efficiency, and integration across Apple’s ecosystem.
