If you are using an older Mac with a not-so-new macOS version, you might be in trouble if you rely on Google Chrome. Google has announced that its popular Chrome browser will drop official support for macOS 12 Monterey starting in July 2026. This change will affect users on older Intel-based Macs that cannot upgrade beyond Monterey, potentially exposing them to security risks as updates cease.
According to the official announcement shared in the Google Chrome Community forum and reported across tech outlets, Chrome version 150 will be the final release compatible with macOS Monterey. Chrome 151, tentatively scheduled for release around July 28, 2026, will require macOS 13 Ventura or a newer version to install and run with full support.
Chrome to be discontinued for users on older Macs
Once the support ends, Chrome will continue to launch on Macs running on Monterey, but these installations will no longer receive any updates, including critical security patches, bug fixes, new features, or compatibility improvements. Over time, this could leave users vulnerable to web-based exploits, as modern websites and online threats increasingly target outdated browser versions.
The decision impacts owners of older Intel Macs that Apple officially stopped supporting with Ventura and later releases. Models such as certain iMacs (pre-2017), MacBook Air (pre-2018), and MacBook Pro (pre-2017) are capped at Monterey and cannot upgrade through official channels. For these users, continuing to use Chrome post-July 2026 means browsing without official protection from Google.
What to do if you have a working Intel-based Mac
– The easiest way to skip this issue is to upgrade to a supported Mac model that runs macOS Ventura (or later) to continue receiving Chrome updates. This includes any of the latest models running on Apple M4 and M5 chips.
– For those who wish to use their older Macs, switching to alternative web browsers that may maintain Monterey support longer is another option. Browsers like Brave, Firefox and Opera are good alternatives to consider for safe browsing.
– For those unable to upgrade hardware while still needing Chrome, consider enhanced caution while conducting your online activities. You should use additional security tools, or limit Chrome usage on Monterey machines.
