Apple’s upcoming macOS 26, set to be unveiled at the Worldwide Developers Conference on June 9, 2025, is poised to mark a significant shift in the company’s hardware compatibility strategy.

Reports indicate that this next-generation operating system may exclude support for several older Mac models, including the 2018 MacBook Pros, 2019 iMacs, and the 2017 iMac Pro. This move, if confirmed, signals Apple’s accelerating transition away from Intel-based systems toward its custom silicon architecture, leaving many users and industry observers questioning the longevity of their current devices.

According to AppleInsider, other models potentially facing obsolescence with macOS 26 include the 2020 Intel-based MacBook Air and the 2018 Mac mini. These devices are currently compatible with macOS Sequoia, the latest version at the time of this reporting, but their exclusion from the next update could strand owners on older software, missing out on critical security patches and new features. This development underscores Apple’s broader push to streamline its ecosystem around Apple Silicon, which began with the introduction of the M1 chip in 2020.

A Strategic Pivot to Apple Silicon

The decision to drop support for these Intel-based Macs is not merely a technical one; it reflects a strategic imperative for Apple to consolidate its hardware and software under a unified architecture. Since the debut of Apple Silicon, the company has aggressively phased out Intel processors, touting superior performance and energy efficiency with its M-series chips. Dropping support for older models could be seen as a way to incentivize upgrades, pushing users toward newer, Apple Silicon-powered devices.

For enterprise users and creative professionals who rely on 2018 MacBook Pros or 2019 iMacs, this potential cutoff raises significant concerns. Many of these machines remain powerful enough for demanding workflows, yet without macOS 26 support, they risk becoming obsolete in terms of software compatibility. AppleInsider notes that while these devices will likely continue to function on macOS Sequoia for some time, the lack of future updates could expose them to security vulnerabilities over the long term.

Impact on User Base and Market Dynamics

The timing of this shift also coincides with rumors of a broader rebranding effort. Industry speculation suggests Apple may adopt a new naming convention, aligning macOS versions with calendar years—hence macOS 26 instead of the expected macOS 16. This change, if true, could signal a deeper overhaul of the operating system’s user interface and features, further justifying the exclusion of older hardware unable to support such advancements.

For Apple, this move risks alienating a segment of its loyal user base, particularly those who invested heavily in high-end Intel-based systems just a few years ago. Yet, it also reinforces the company’s reputation for forward momentum, prioritizing innovation over backward compatibility. As reported by AppleInsider, the list of supported devices for macOS 26 will likely focus on Apple Silicon Macs, with only a dwindling number of newer Intel models making the cut.

Looking Ahead: A Silicon-Dominated Future

As the June 9 conference approaches, all eyes will be on Apple’s official announcements regarding macOS 26 compatibility. If the rumored exclusions hold true, they will mark another step in Apple’s relentless march toward a fully integrated, silicon-driven ecosystem. While this may frustrate owners of older Macs, it also sets the stage for a future where Apple’s hardware and software are more tightly aligned than ever.

Industry insiders will be watching closely to see how Apple balances this transition with user satisfaction. For now, owners of 2018 MacBook Pros, 2019 iMacs, and similar models should prepare for the possibility that their devices may soon be left behind in Apple’s rapidly evolving landscape.