Google Chrome stops updating on macOS Big Sur: What it means for your Mac

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Google Chrome has taken a significant step forward for Mac users. by announcing that it is no longer updating its browser on computers running macOS 11 Big Sur. This decision, officially announced on the Chrome status page, has a particular impact on those using older Apple computers who, for various reasons, have not upgraded to more recent versions of the operating system.

This change marks a turning point for many Mac users Despite the solidity of Big Sur when it was launched, they now face the end of updates for their most popular browser. Starting with Chrome version 139, only those with macOS Monterey (12) or higher installed will be able to benefit from new features and security patches.

What does the end of Chrome support in Big Sur mean?

The decision Stop Chrome updates on macOS 11 responds to safety and maintenance reasons. Google has explained that keeping the browser up to date on systems not supported by Apple poses a risk. This isn't worth it, as these versions also lose the fundamental protections of the operating system itself. In Google's words: "Using a compatible operating system is essential to maintaining security."

For those still using Big Sur, this means that Chrome version 138 will be the last one you can install.. The browser will continue to work, but Warnings will appear indicating that you do not have the latest version. and, more importantly, you will be left out of future improvements, new features, and security patches.

Falling behind can lead to compatibility issues with web pages., bugs, and vulnerabilities that will not be fixed. Even other Chromium-based browsers could adopt a similar policy in the near future.

Which Macs are left out of the latest versions of Chrome?

The measure mainly affects MacBook, MacBook Air, and MacBook Pro from 2015 or earlierAs well as iMac, Mac mini, and Mac Pro from 2013 or earlierThese models are no longer able to officially update to macOS 12 Monterey, a prerequisite for installing modern versions of Google Chrome. If you'd like to know if your device is compatible with the latest versions, you can check out our full guide at Updates for Chrome on Mac.

If you have any doubts about whether your Mac is affected, just go to the System Settings → General → Software UpdateFrom there, you can check both your system version and whether an update is available.

Macs compatible with newer versions, such as macOS Sequoia, are as follows:

• MacBook Pro (2018 and later)
• MacBook Air (2020 and later)
• iMac (2019 and later)
• iMac Pro (2017)
• Mac mini (2018 and later)
• Mac Studio (2022 and later)
• Mac Pro (2019 and later)

Options and alternatives if your Mac is stuck on Big Sur

What can you do if your device is no longer compatible with new versions of Chrome? various alternatives and recommended steps depending on your situation:

• Upgrade to macOS Monterey or higher if your equipment allows it. stay up to date It's the easiest way to keep using Chrome with all its features.
• Change browserFirefox, Microsoft Edge, and Opera continue to provide support and updates for macOS 11 for the time being.
• Use Chrome 138 at your own risk, although it is worth remembering that you will be exposed to potential threats and loss of compatibility with online services.
• Try advanced tools like OpenCore Legacy Patcher To install a newer system on computers that Apple no longer officially supports. This method is unofficial and can cause instability, so it's only suitable for experienced users.

For those who rely on professional browser use or manage sensitive information, the best option is to upgrade to a more modern Mac or at least upgrade as much as the hardware allows.

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Urgent update for Google Chrome due to critical vulnerability: what you need to know