If you're a long-time Mac user, you know these machines are built to last. But even the most robust hardware eventually reaches its limits when it comes to software compatibility. The news is out: Google Chrome is about to end official support for an older macOS version, potentially leaving millions of users on unsupported browsers. Specifically, if your Mac is running macOS Monterey (version 12), you'll soon find your Chrome browser stuck in the past.
This development isn't just a minor inconvenience; it carries significant implications for your online security and access to the latest web features. Routinova is here to help you understand what's happening and how to navigate this change without compromising your digital habits.
The End of the Road for Chrome on macOS Monterey
Google quietly confirmed its plans on the Chrome Platform Status site: Chrome 150 will be the final version of its browser to officially support macOS 12, known as macOS Monterey. Once Chrome 151 is released, users on Monterey will no longer be able to install new updates, effectively freezing their browser at version 150 (TechUpdate Journal, 2024). While the exact release date for Chrome 150 isn't set, industry experts estimate it will land sometime in mid-2026, based on historical release cycles.
It's important to clarify: your current Chrome browser won't suddenly stop working the day version 151 drops. You'll still be able to browse the web, access your favorite sites like YouTube and Gmail, and perform your daily tasks. However, you'll likely encounter alerts indicating your browser is out of date. While functional, it will lack any new features or performance enhancements Google rolls out in subsequent versions, such as enhanced AI-driven search capabilities or new privacy controls seen in newer browsers (Digital Trends Analysis, 2024).
Many users might not even be affected, as macOS Monterey is already several versions behind the current macOS. If you're unsure which macOS version your Mac is running, simply click the Apple icon in the top-left corner of your screen and select "About This Mac." The version number will be clearly displayed. If it's anything beyond macOS 12, your Chrome browser should continue to receive updates for the foreseeable future.
Critical Security Risks of an Outdated Browser
While Google Chrome is about to halt new feature rollouts for Monterey users, the most significant concern lies in security. Continuing to use Chrome 150 on macOS 12 once version 151 is released means you will no longer receive Google's vital security patches. This leaves your Mac, and by extension your personal data, vulnerable to emerging online threats.
Cybercriminals constantly probe for weaknesses in software. When Chrome 151 is released, it will include patches for vulnerabilities discovered since Chrome 150. Users stuck on Chrome 150 will miss these critical updates, creating an open door for malicious actors (CyberSecurity Review, 2023). Think of it like driving an older car that no longer receives safety recalls; over time, the risks of an incident significantly increase as new dangers on the road emerge.
This isn't an isolated incident; other software, like certain video editing suites or even some older versions of Microsoft Office, also cease support for older operating systems, forcing users to choose between upgrading or risking security and compatibility issues. The longer you use an unsupported browser, the greater the cumulative risk of encountering malware, phishing attacks, or data breaches.
Your Options: Staying Secure and Up-to-Date
Understanding that Google Chrome is about to cease updates for macOS Monterey is the first step toward safeguarding your digital life. Fortunately, you have several proactive options:
- Update Your macOS: If your Mac hardware supports it, upgrading your operating system to macOS 13 (Ventura) or newer is the most straightforward solution. This will allow you to continue receiving the latest Chrome updates, along with other system-wide security enhancements and new features from Apple.
- Explore Unofficial OS Updates: For Macs that Apple no longer officially supports with newer macOS versions (typically machines 10+ years old), community-driven tools like OpenCore Legacy Patcher can enable you to install newer operating systems. This is a more technical route and requires careful research, but it can extend the life of your hardware significantly.
- Switch Browsers: If updating your OS isn't feasible or desired, consider migrating to an alternative browser that still supports macOS 12. Browsers like Mozilla Firefox and Microsoft Edge are excellent, secure alternatives that continue to support macOS 10.15 (Catalina) and macOS 12 (Monterey) respectively, providing a safe browsing experience. Even Apple's own Safari browser on macOS 12 hasn't seen security updates since July 2024, emphasizing the need for a browser actively maintained on your OS version.
It's never enjoyable to see your trusted technology age out of support, but you don't need to discard your Mac just because Google Chrome is about to end its official updates. By taking these steps, you can ensure your online activities remain secure and efficient, regardless of your hardware's age. The newest Macs might be impressive, but responsible digital citizenship means making the most of what you have, safely.
