Apple is advising iPhone and Mac users to move away from using Google Chrome in favor of Safari, particularly for those running older versions of macOS. The tech giant asserts that Safari offers superior privacy protection, setting it apart from Chrome. Apple’s caution comes as Google prepares to stop supporting Chrome for users on macOS Monterey, a move that will leave many without security updates and future Chrome releases.
In a statement, Apple clarified that unlike Chrome, Safari provides enhanced privacy features that better safeguard user data. This push to shift users toward Safari is especially significant for those on older Macs that can no longer receive operating system updates. Apple emphasizes that as technology advances, so too must the software that supports it—reinforcing the importance of staying updated with the latest operating system versions to ensure protection from potential vulnerabilities.
On the other hand, Google has confirmed that Chrome 150 will be the final version to support macOS Monterey. From Chrome 151, scheduled for release on July 28, 2026, users will need to be running macOS 13 Ventura or later to continue receiving updates. This means that Chrome users on macOS Monterey will no longer get security updates or new features once Chrome 150 is superseded.
Google has also issued a warning, urging users to upgrade their macOS versions to continue receiving the latest Chrome updates. If users cannot upgrade their OS, they must be cautious with their browser choice. While Chrome will still function, it will no longer receive updates, putting users at greater risk from external threats. In this scenario, Google recommends switching to Safari, which will offer better security and privacy, even on outdated systems.
The end of support for macOS Monterey is no surprise, as Apple ceased providing updates for this version in mid-2024. This marks the inevitable step for Google, which had already signaled that support for older macOS versions would be phased out as new operating systems were introduced. For users who cannot upgrade to macOS 13 Ventura or later, Safari presents a safer, more secure browsing experience, minimizing exposure to potential security risks.
This change will primarily affect the small percentage of Mac users still running older operating systems. As Google’s cutoff date approaches in 2026, users with macOS Monterey must act before then to avoid running unsupported software. Apple’s recommendation to switch to Safari reflects their ongoing commitment to ensuring user safety and privacy, positioning it as the ideal alternative for those unable to update their macOS version.
