Could Apple Abandon Intel Macs Before Microsoft?

[SegNerd]

I was wondering... what would happen if Apple stopped supporting Intel Macs before Microsoft? It’s possible that whenever Apple releases the first ARM-only OS, Intel Macs could conceivably still run the latest version of Windows (maybe). That would look very strange for Apple (who normally touts support for older products), and it would mean you could switch to Windows without changing your computer.

Intel Macs seem like they should be powerful enough to keep up with Windows OS for a few years if not even more. Do you think Apple would let this happen?

 

[KPOM]

Yes, Apple will likely cut off the Intel Macs in a few years. Even today you can load the latest Windows 10 on Macs that can’t load MacOS releases after High Sierra or Mojave.

 

[Jack Neill]

I was wondering... what would happen if Apple stopped supporting Intel Macs before Microsoft? It’s possible that whenever Apple releases the first ARM-only OS, Intel Macs could conceivably still run the latest version of Windows (maybe). That would look very strange for Apple (who normally touts support for older products), and it would mean you could switch to Windows without changing your computer.

Intel Macs seem like they should be powerful enough to keep up with Windows OS for a few years if not even more. Do you think Apple would let this happen?

Already happens. There's plenty of Intel Macs that can run a up to date copy of W10 and cannot run the newest X/MacOS

 

[lclev]

One of the reasons I decided to go ahead and purchase a 2020 13". If it becomes impossible to update to the latest Apple OS then there is always Windows - as much as I hate it. But one thing you can depend on with Windows - they support a wide variety of machines and processors. The performance may be sketchy at times and the constant updates can be fun but it is an option. I also have a couple of apps for work that only work on Windows.

 

[MevetS]

I bought a 2018 Mini last December to replace a 2010 MacPro. Overall I'm pleased with the move. I currently run Windows 10 via Parallels. I can see a time when I have an AS Mac, perhaps another Mini, and the 2018 Mini becomes a Windows box.

 

[vigilant]

This is largely a non-issue.

You can get just about all of the drivers you need directly from the manufacturers of the chipsets Apple’s Macs use today.

 

[Hexley]

I was wondering... what would happen if Apple stopped supporting Intel Macs before Microsoft? It’s possible that whenever Apple releases the first ARM-only OS, Intel Macs could conceivably still run the latest version of Windows (maybe). That would look very strange for Apple (who normally touts support for older products), and it would mean you could switch to Windows without changing your computer.

Intel Macs seem like they should be powerful enough to keep up with Windows OS for a few years if not even more. Do you think Apple would let this happen?

Late 2020 iMac 27" would probably be supported until as early as 2024 or as late as 2028.