Will Intel Macs run iOS apps? | What You Need To Know About Apple’s Free OS Update | One PC Panda

 What is macOS 11?

Apple has just released its latest macOS 11. It's their free update and their first major redesign in many years. macOS 11.0 or Big Sur features significant design changes and will be their latest core system in new app features. What makes it different from the previous operating system? First, macOS Big Sur is the very first OS that supports the new M1 laptop chip - Apple's newly introduced chip that will power its latest line of MacBook Air, Mac mini, and MacBook Pro. 


Design and aesthetic changes are highly noticeable once you're done with the free update. One of the first things users will notice is the menu bars, font colors and some popular apps getting significant redesigns. Maps for Mac also received a new updated version. Big Sur also made substantial updates on privacy settings and tools, including a password-monitoring tool that monitors and prompts users whenever saved passwords get involved in a data breach. iOS users will instantly notice the similarities of macOS 11 and iOS, which is one of the goals of the free update for users to find a more comfortable, convenient and familiar interface whenever they switch from macOS to iOS and vice versa. 


Can you run iOS apps on a Mac?

We mentioned the similarities between iOS and macOS. The real concern of iOS users is if you can run iOS apps on a mac? The answer is YES. In fact, the new Apple OS is capable of running a more comprehensive range of iOS apps than the previous versions. Big Sur would be capable of supporting universal apps. This means that the new macOS 11 can run apps for iPhone and iPad app users.  


This new change actually offers users to expand their selection of apps available on their Mac devices. Big Sur is capable of supporting even apps that were not upgraded yet to universal version.



Will Intel Macs run iOS apps?

Apple announced last June 2020 that they will be transitioning away from Intel-based MacBook Airs and MacBook Pros and will focus more on Arm-based silicon. But no worries, the newly launched Big Sur extends its support not only to the M1 Chip MacBooks but also to Intel-based Macs. Users can run their iOS apps on Intel Macs. The only difference is that the macOS 11 will perform better and run apps properly on MacBooks with the M1 chip. 


Should I update to macOS Big Sur?

Apple has been dropping new software updates and new features in its coming Mac lineups. Even dropping the news that they will transition to their new ARM chips. Since macOS 11 Big Sur runs iOS apps on Mac. Should you be updating your Mac Intel to Big Sur as well? Should you buy Mac Intel Macbooks?


If you're still undecided, best to wait for the right time and see definite changes and comments from those who made the switch. As this new chip and macOS are practically unknown, how they play out in the next few months is crucial. M1 and Intel processors don't run the same software. Although Apple promised to make Mac Intel updates in the coming years, this still sounds too vague. Your worst-case scenario is developers may even stop working their apps to run on Intel Macs. 


We say if your Mac Intel model is getting old and you want something better, then make the switch to M1 chip and Big Sur. Although Big Sur supports Mac Intel, it is mainly compatible with M1 chips. Updating your Mac Intel now may affect your Mac's performance. If you prefer Mac Intel still, don't worry. Apple is always going to sell its Intel line but on a pricier tag. 


What do you think of Apple’s transition to their own developed M1 chip? Are you a Mac Intel user? Are you going to make the switch? I want to know your thoughts, After all, I’m One PC Panda

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