CrossOver 27 removes legacy support for Intel
CrossOver 27 requires Apple Silicon and macOS Sonoma or newer, ending support for Intel-based Macs and 32-bit gaming bottles. According to CodeWeavers, the shift streamlines development for the 97% of users already on modern systems, allowing the team to focus on UI optimization and ARM64 builds for Mac and Linux.
Why is CrossOver dropping Intel Mac support?
CodeWeavers is removing legacy Intel support to concentrate resources on a single hardware architecture. By focusing exclusively on Apple Silicon, the development team can optimize the user interface and performance without maintaining compatibility for older x86 systems.
The decision follows user data showing that 97% of CrossOver users already run macOS Sonoma or newer. This high adoption rate makes the removal of Intel support a low-risk move for the majority of the install base, according to the developer.
What happens to users with 32-bit gaming bottles?
Users relying on 32-bit gaming bottles must migrate their games to 64-bit bottles to maintain functionality. CrossOver 27 will no longer support 32-bit bottles, rendering those specific configurations non-functional upon update.
This move mirrors Apple’s own architectural shift. Apple phased out 32-bit application support starting with macOS Catalina. CodeWeavers is now aligning its software to match the underlying operating system requirements of macOS Sonoma and macOS Golden Gate.
How does this affect legacy hardware owners?
Owners of Intel-based Macs or those running operating systems older than macOS Sonoma can continue using CrossOver 26. CodeWeavers stated that version 26 will not stop working simply because a new version exists.
However, legacy users face two primary risks. First, newer operating system updates may break the older CrossOver 26 software. Second, if the games themselves receive updates, they may no longer run on the older version of the translation layer.
What is the future of Mac gaming on ARM?
The transition to ARM64 builds suggests a future where Mac gaming relies less on legacy translation and more on native optimization. By removing Intel support, CodeWeavers is positioning itself to better integrate with Apple’s Game Porting Toolkit and other ARM-specific enhancements.
This shift reflects a wider pattern in the software industry. Much like the transition from PowerPC to Intel two decades ago, the move to Apple Silicon is forcing developers to abandon “bridge” software that supports two different CPU architectures. The result is typically a leaner, faster application that utilizes the full power of the modern chip.
Comparison: CrossOver 26 vs. CrossOver 27
| Feature | CrossOver 26 | CrossOver 27 |
|---|---|---|
| CPU Support | Intel & Apple Silicon | Apple Silicon Only |
| Min. OS | Older macOS versions | macOS Sonoma+ |
| Bottle Support | 32-bit & 64-bit | 64-bit Only |
Frequently Asked Questions
Will my Intel Mac stop running CrossOver?
No, but you cannot upgrade to version 27. You must remain on CrossOver 26 to keep the software working on Intel hardware.
What is a 64-bit bottle?
A “bottle” is a virtual Windows environment. A 64-bit bottle allows the software to use more memory and modern CPU instructions, which is required for CrossOver 27.
Do I need to update my macOS to use the new version?
Yes. According to CodeWeavers, macOS Sonoma or a newer version is required for CrossOver 27 to function.
Are you still using an Intel Mac for gaming, or have you made the jump to Apple Silicon? Share your experience in the comments below or subscribe to our newsletter for more Mac gaming updates.