Apple is nearing the end of full macOS feature updates for Intel-based Macs, with macOS 27 requiring Apple silicon and macOS Tahoe 26 remaining as the final Intel-era release.

Starting with macOS 27, support will be exclusive to Apple Silicon Macs with M-series chips, potentially including the forthcoming MacBook Neo with an A18 Pro processor.

macOS 27 will drop Intel support for high-end models from 2019-2020, such as the 16‑inch MacBook Pro, 27‑inch iMac, Mac Pro, and certain 13‑inch MacBook Pro configurations, keeping them on macOS Tahoe 26.

Intel counters with new mobile Core Series CPUs (with NPU) and the HUDIMM memory standard, while the price of some peripherals climbs.

WWDC 2026 in June will emphasize Apple’s AI expansion, including a Siri redesign and Apple Intelligence upgrades, along with stronger recycling progress and use of sustainable materials (over 30% recycled materials, 100% recycled aluminum in some models).

This summary is based on materials released ahead of WWDC 2026 and cites official developer notes and MacRumors coverage for confirmation.

Apple is diversifying its hardware lineup, potentially introducing a low-cost Mac Neo desktop (around $299) as an entry point to Silicon, with dual-monitor support and 12 GB RAM.

Hardware bottlenecks and supply-chain issues are delaying the roadmap: Mac Studio with M5 now lands in October 2026; MacBook Pro with OLED and M6-Pro pushed to late 2027; DRAM prices have doubled.

As the transition progresses, a ‘middle period’ may emerge where security updates continue but app support, plugins, drivers, and peripherals lag in vendor updates.

The long-term outlook centers on a converged software-hardware strategy with macOS 27 as a turning point, a focus on AI features, recycling, and price stability for memory possibly only by late 2027/2028.

WWDC26, scheduled for June, will reveal OS changes for developers and outline the transition timeline for users and IT teams.

Apple transitioned to Apple Silicon in 2020 and has demonstrated advantages in performance, battery life, and quieter operation on M-series Macs.