Apple has officially allowed software developers to stop supporting Mac computers powered by Intel processors for applications requiring macOS 13 or later.
The technology company notified application creators through its App Store platform that software built for recent operating system releases no longer needs to maintain compatibility with legacy Intel chips, according to a report by MacRumors.
The corporation stated in its developer notification that macOS App Store applications requiring macOS 13 or later can now opt out of supporting Intel-based Mac computers.
Apple explained that dropping dual platform support would streamline software development. Eliminating the requirement to maintain compatibility with Intel hardware allows developers to build and maintain applications focused exclusively on models powered by Apple Silicon processors.
Apple is an American technology corporation headquartered in Cupertino, California, that designs consumer electronics, computer software, and digital services. Its Mac line of personal computers runs on the proprietary macOS operating system, with third-party software distributed through the Mac App Store. For years, Mac personal computers relied on x86 microprocessors manufactured by Intel Corporation.
Transition to Apple Silicon architecture
The policy update marks a major step in phasing out support for Intel-based personal computers across Apple's software ecosystem. Apple originally began replacing Intel chips in late 2020 when it transitioned all of its Mac computers to proprietary Apple Silicon processors of its own design.
The shift away from Intel hardware began in late 2020 after Apple produced Intel-powered computers for a long period. Software developers were initially expected to maintain compatibility across both processor families, but the updated App Store guidelines allow developers to focus development resources solely on Apple's custom architecture for modern software updates.
Executive leadership transition at Apple
The change in developer policy comes alongside a major leadership change at the top of the technology company. On September 1, John Ternus became the new chief executive officer of Apple, succeeding Tim Cook.
Cook concluded his work as chief executive officer in early September after leading the corporation for nearly 15 years in the position. He guided Apple through numerous major product cycles and business expansions during his tenure at the head of the company.
Ternus worked at Apple for a long time as an engineer before taking over the top leadership position. During his engineering career at the company, Ternus was key among those who spearheaded the transition of Mac computers to custom in-house processors.
