Apple has announced the new Studio Display and Studio Display XDR, but if you still use an Intel-based Mac, these monitors will not work with your machine. The company has limited compatibility to Macs powered by Apple silicon, which means older Intel models are now left out.
This decision directly affects users who have not upgraded to M-series Macs. Even though many Intel Macs still run well for daily tasks, they cannot connect to the new Studio Display models. As a result, customers planning to buy one of these displays need to check their Mac’s processor before placing an order.
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According to Apple’s official compatibility list, both displays only support Macs released from 2020 onward that use M-series chips.
Supported Macs
Apple confirms compatibility with the following models:
- 16-inch MacBook Pro 2021 and later
- 14-inch MacBook Pro 2021 and later
- 13-inch MacBook Pro with M1 2020 and later
- 15-inch MacBook Air 2023 and later
- 13-inch MacBook Air with M1 2020 and later
- Mac Studio 2022 and later
- Mac mini 2020 and later
- Mac Pro 2023 and later
- 24-inch iMac 2021 and later
Apple began phasing out Intel Macs in 2020 when it introduced Apple silicon. The MacBook Air switched in 2020, followed by the MacBook Pro lineup in 2021, and other Macs transitioned after that. Apple discontinued the final Intel Mac Pro in 2023, and the company has not sold an Intel Mac for nearly three years.
Support is also coming to an end on the software side. macOS Tahoe will be the final major update for Intel-based Macs, and these models will not receive macOS 27. Apple plans to continue security updates for three additional years, but feature updates will stop.
The new Studio Display and Studio Display XDR open for pre-order on March 4 at 9:15 a.m. Eastern Time. If you still rely on an Intel Mac, you will need a newer Apple silicon model to use these displays.
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