macOS 27 Golden Gate arrives 14 September — and it leaves Intel Macs behind

macOS 27 Golden Gate arrives on 14 September, and this is the release that finally draws a line under Intel Macs.

Apple’s own compatibility list is Apple silicon only: MacBook Air and MacBook Pro models from 2020 onwards, Apple silicon iMac and Mac mini models, Mac Studio, Apple silicon Mac Pro, plus the MacBook Neo. Intel Macs stop at macOS 26.

The headline software change is Siri AI. It can handle more natural back-and-forth conversations, appears through a dedicated app and Spotlight, and can use personal context from places such as Mail, Messages and Photos. Apple says it is rolling out in English first, and notes that usage limits may apply.

There are plenty of smaller changes too, including more Apple Intelligence features across Safari and Photos, Visual Intelligence on Mac, and a refined version of the Liquid Glass design.

If you own an Intel Mac, the important point is simple: macOS 27 is not for your machine. If you use older Intel-only apps on an Apple silicon Mac, you should also start checking for native or universal versions now, because Rosetta is nearing the end of general-purpose support.

Discuss it: are you upgrading on day one, or waiting for the first point release? Join the UKMac forum.