However, in rare instances, you might need the Intel version of an app. Because of this, apps with a universal version installed will run this version on Apple silicon Macs by default. Apps designed to run natively with Apple silicon chips provide a better process overall. In most cases, it's preferred to run universal apps on Apple silicon machines since Intel-based versions must rely on Rosetta 2. What if you need to use the Intel version? Review the list of apps on the top right, noting the different kinds of apps under the Kind column: Apple silicon, Universal, Intel, iOS, or other. Click Applications under the Software selection on the left side of the System Report.Choose About This Mac for the pull-down menu.

Click the Apple icon at the top left of the menu bar.You can find out which architecture apps are using Apple silicon-based apps by following these simple directions: The last option, creating only Apple silicone-based apps, is unfeasible since there are more Intel-based Mac users - and developers wouldn't want to exclude those users. On the Apple silicon Macs, the ARM versions will run automatically. At the same time, the middle option creates Intel- and Apple silicon-based software versions. The former means Apple silicon users will need to use the Rosetta emulation software to convert Intel-based titles. They can continue producing Intel-based apps only, shift over and create 'Universal 2' versions, or only offer Apple silicon versions.

For Intel-based apps to run on these computers, Apple introduced Rosetta 2.ĭevelopers now have three choices when it comes to creating apps for Mac. However, that started to change when the first Apple silicon Macs arrived. Until recently, Mac developers only had to worry about creating Intel-based apps.

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