Google has confirmed that Chrome 150 will be the final version of its browser to support macOS Monterey. Users running macOS 12, which Apple released in October 2021, will need to upgrade their operating system or switch to an alternative browser to continue receiving security updates and new features beyond mid-2026.
Chrome 150 Marks the End of Monterey Support
In a platform status update, Google stated that Chrome 150 will continue to function on Macs running Monterey, but the browser will display a warning infobar and will no longer receive updates beyond that version. For new installations of Chrome 151 and later, macOS 13 Ventura or newer will be required.
While Google has not announced a specific release date for Chrome 150, the browser typically follows a four-week release cycle for major versions. With the current stable channel at version 143, Chrome 150 is expected to roll out sometime around mid-2026.
What This Means for Mac Users
Users who remain on macOS Monterey will face a choice between updating their operating system or switching to a different browser. Firefox currently still supports macOS Monterey and continues to receive updates for that version of macOS, making it a viable alternative for users unable or unwilling to upgrade.
This development is particularly significant for owners of older Mac models for which Monterey represents the latest compatible version of macOS. These users will need to carefully consider their options for maintaining browser security and compatibility with modern web standards.
Security and Compatibility Considerations
Running an outdated browser poses several risks that users should understand. Without continuing security updates, Chrome 150 will gradually become more vulnerable to emerging threats. Additionally, modern websites may eventually stop supporting older browser versions, leading to compatibility issues and degraded functionality.
Google’s decision to end support for macOS Monterey aligns with the company’s typical practice of dropping support for operating systems approximately three to four years after their release. This approach allows Google to focus development resources on newer platforms while encouraging users to maintain up-to-date systems.
FAQ
Q: Will Chrome 150 stop working immediately on macOS Monterey?
A: No. Chrome 150 will continue to function on macOS Monterey after its release, but it will display a warning message and will not receive any further updates beyond that version.
Q: Which Macs are limited to macOS Monterey as their latest supported version?
A: Several Mac models from 2015 and 2016 can only run macOS Monterey as their maximum supported operating system. Owners of these devices will need to consider alternative browsers if they want to continue receiving security updates.
Q: Are there alternatives to Chrome that still support macOS Monterey?
A: Yes. Mozilla Firefox currently continues to support macOS Monterey with regular updates. Safari also remains available as the built-in browser option for Monterey users.
MacReview Verdict
Google’s decision to end Chrome support for macOS Monterey is consistent with standard industry practices, but it highlights an ongoing challenge for owners of older Mac hardware. Users still running Monterey should begin planning their transition strategy now, whether that involves upgrading to a newer version of macOS, switching to Firefox or another supported browser, or considering a hardware upgrade. The mid-2026 timeline provides several months to prepare, but waiting until Chrome 150 arrives to make a decision could leave users vulnerable to security risks. For those unable to upgrade their operating system, Firefox represents a solid alternative that maintains both security and compatibility with modern web standards.
