macOS Tahoe 26.4 Warns Users About Apps Affected by Rosetta 2 End of Support

Apple's latest macOS update signals the end of Intel-based Mac support, sparking debate among users and developers.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 2:09pm

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A highly detailed, glowing 3D illustration of a futuristic Apple silicon chip and circuit board, illuminated by vibrant neon cyan and magenta lights, conceptually representing the technological advancements and challenges of Apple's hardware transition.As Apple transitions its Mac lineup to its own Apple silicon chips, the end of Intel-based Mac support raises questions about the future of app compatibility and developer challenges.NYC Today

Apple's macOS Tahoe 26.4 is warning users about the impending end of Rosetta 2 support, which will impact apps running on Intel-based Macs. The update is the last to support these machines, as Apple transitions fully to its own Apple silicon chips. This move has raised questions about app compatibility and the challenges developers may face.

Why it matters

The phasing out of Intel-based Macs is a significant shift in Apple's hardware strategy, one that will have far-reaching implications for both users and developers. While Apple assures continued support for older software in Linux VMs, the transition raises concerns about the future of app compatibility and the potential challenges developers may encounter.

The details

Starting with macOS Tahoe 26.4, users will see pop-up notifications when launching apps that rely on Rosetta 2, informing them that these apps will cease to function once Rosetta 2 support ends. This move comes as Apple's journey to Apple silicon, which began with the M1 Macs in 2020, culminates with the Apple silicon Mac Pro in 2023. With macOS 27 launching in September 2026, the end of Intel Mac support is imminent, despite Apple's initial announcement of the transition plans at WWDC in June 2025.

  • Apple first announced its plans to transition to Apple silicon at WWDC in June 2025.
  • macOS Tahoe 26.4 will be the last version to support Intel-based Macs.
  • macOS 27 is scheduled to launch in September 2026, marking the end of Intel Mac support.

The players

Apple

The technology company that designs and manufactures the Mac line of personal computers, as well as other hardware and software products.

Mark Gurman

A Bloomberg reporter who covers Apple and has predicted the imminent release of the iPhone 17e and an M4-powered iPad Air.

Jeff Pu

An analyst who has revealed five exciting new features for the upcoming iPhone 18 Pro.

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What’s next

Apple is hosting a 'special Apple Experience' event in New York, London, and Shanghai on March 4, 2026, leaving fans curious about what's in store. Additionally, a rebranded 'Sales Coach' app is set to launch this month, offering sales tips and training to Apple Store employees.

The takeaway

The end of Intel Mac support marks a significant shift in Apple's hardware strategy, one that will have far-reaching implications for both users and developers. While Apple is taking steps to ease the transition, the move has raised concerns about app compatibility and the potential challenges developers may face. As the tech giant continues to push forward with its Apple silicon transition, the industry and consumers alike will be closely watching to see how this change unfolds.