If you're a Chrome user still operating on macOS Big Sur, it's time to prepare for an important transition. Google has officially announced that it will be discontinuing support for macOS 11. This means that users will soon need to make a decision: either update their operating system or continue using an outdated version of Chrome.
According to the latest information from Google, the upcoming Chrome 139, slated for release on July 30, will not be compatible with macOS 11. The company confirmed on its Chrome Platform Status page that Chrome 138 will be the last version to support macOS 11. From Chrome 139 onwards, users will need to be running macOS 12 or a newer version to continue receiving updates and new features.
Google's announcement clearly states: "Chrome 138 will be the last release to support macOS 11; Chrome 139+ will no longer support macOS 11, which is outside of its support window with Apple." This change highlights the importance of running a supported operating system to ensure the security and functionality of your browser.
For users still on macOS Big Sur, Chrome will continue to function, but it will display a warning infobar indicating that it is no longer supported. Importantly, Chrome will not receive any further updates, including critical security patches. If you want to keep your browser up to date with the latest features and security fixes, updating your computer to a supported version of macOS is essential.
For those looking to install Chrome 139 for the first time, be aware that macOS 12 or later will be a requirement. This means that while Chrome may still work on older systems, it will not receive new features or updates, which can compromise your online security and user experience.
If you've been hesitant to upgrade your macOS, now could be the perfect time to make the jump to a newer version. However, if your hardware limits you to staying on Big Sur, it may be wise to explore alternative browsers that still support older macOS versions while they still can.
In summary, Google Chrome's decision to discontinue support for macOS Big Sur serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of keeping your operating system up to date. To enjoy the latest features and maintain security, users will need to upgrade to at least macOS 12 or consider other browser options if stuck on older hardware.
