M1 MacBook Professional, the primary of many laptops with Apple’s personal silicon.
Jason Cipriani/ZDNET
WWDC 2025 is a giant day for Apple customers because it’s when the tech big previews future updates. This 12 months, we noticed the introduction of a strong UI redesign known as Liquid Glass. However typically an important information comes after the keynote presentation.
Additionally: How to install MacOS 26 on your MacBook (and which models support it)
Throughout the Platforms State of the Union, Apple introduced that MacOS 26 Tahoe would be the remaining model of the working system that can roll out to Intel-based Mac computer systems. Which means beginning in 2026, you will need to personal an M1 or newer MacBook to obtain all of the enhancements and new options that MacOS 27 will carry.
The listing of supporting units is slightly small. In keeping with the official MacOS Tahoe preview page, the 2019 16-inch Mac Professional, 2019 13-inch MacBook Professional, 2020 iMac, and 2020 MacBook Professional would be the final 4 to obtain the brand new OS. If you happen to look intently, not a single Intel-based MacBook Air or Mac mini is on the listing. They have been dropped.
This information is not actually shocking, as Apple typically ends {hardware} and software program help for older machines. Realistically talking, it was solely a matter of time.
Additionally: MacBook Pro vs. MacBook Air: How to decide which Apple laptop you should buy
Intel-based Macs ought to proceed to obtain vital safety updates when MacOS Tahoe rolls out later this 12 months. 9To5Mac states that the Mac fashions operating the brand new system “will proceed to obtain safety updates for one more three years”, however after that, it is over.
Proper now, it is exhausting to say for certain with out additional particulars from Apple. So, we reached out to Apple to ask what its plans are for safety patches. Will all Intel-based Macs proceed to obtain these updates, or are they unique to the 4 fashions beforehand talked about? If it is the latter, how lengthy will they obtain the patches earlier than they finish eternally?
Additionally: Your MacBook is getting a free upgrade: The 5 best MacOS 26 features Apple just announced
I am going to replace this story if I get a response again. Within the meantime, I strongly encourage you to improve if you happen to’re nonetheless on the previous Intel-based Mac. Proper now, you should purchase an M1 MacBook Air for $649 off Walmart. However if you happen to’ve acquired the money to spend, Amazon has dropped the value on the M4 MacBook Air and is retailing for $849.
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