Chrome 150 Will Be Final Version for macOS Monterey Users
If you’re still running macOS Monterey, your time with Google Chrome is about to run out. Google has confirmed that Chrome 150—expected to launch around mid-2026—will be the last browser version compatible with macOS 12, originally released in October 2021. Starting with Chrome 151, users will need macOS Ventura (13) or newer to install or update the browser. This move aligns with Google’s broader strategy to streamline development and focus on modern operating systems that support the latest web standards and security protocols.
Why Is Google Dropping macOS Monterey Support?
Google regularly phases out support for older operating systems to keep Chrome fast, secure, and aligned with evolving web technologies. macOS Monterey, now over four years old, lacks some of the under-the-hood improvements found in newer macOS versions—like enhanced memory management, updated security frameworks, and better compatibility with modern APIs. By requiring macOS 13+, Google ensures Chrome can leverage these advancements without maintaining legacy code that slows innovation and increases vulnerability risks.
What Happens When Chrome 150 Lands on Your Mac?
Once Chrome 150 rolls out, Monterey users will still be able to use the browser—but with a catch. A persistent warning infobar will appear, notifying users that no further updates are coming. While the browser won’t suddenly stop working, it will become increasingly outdated. Without security patches or feature enhancements, continued use could expose users to emerging online threats. Google won’t force uninstallation, but it strongly discourages relying on an unsupported version for daily browsing.
When Can You Expect Chrome 150?
As of January 2026, the current stable Chrome version is 143. Given Google’s standard release cadence—one major version every four weeks—Chrome 150 is projected to arrive around June or July 2026. That gives Monterey users roughly six months to plan their next steps. Whether that means upgrading macOS, switching browsers, or even considering new hardware, the clock is ticking. Proactive users should use this window to evaluate their options rather than wait for the cutoff.
Can You Still Use Chrome After Support Ends?
Technically, yes—but it’s not advisable. Chrome 150 will function on macOS Monterey after support ends, but it won’t receive critical security fixes. Cybercriminals often target outdated software, and an unpatched browser is a prime entry point for malware, phishing, and data theft. Even if your workflow feels fine today, tomorrow’s web may demand features or protections your frozen Chrome version simply can’t provide. For safety-conscious users, especially those handling sensitive information, staying current isn’t optional—it’s essential.
macOS Upgrade: Is It Feasible for Your Mac?
Before panicking, check if your Mac can run macOS Ventura (13) or Sonoma (14). Apple typically supports Macs for about seven years after release, so many Monterey-capable devices—like 2017 and newer MacBook Pros or iMacs—can likely upgrade. Visit Apple > About This Mac to verify compatibility. If your hardware qualifies, backing up your data and installing the latest macOS is the simplest path forward. Not only does it restore Chrome compatibility, but it also brings performance boosts, new features, and extended security coverage from Apple itself.
Alternative Browsers Still Supporting Monterey
If upgrading macOS isn’t possible due to hardware limitations, don’t lose hope. Mozilla Firefox continues to support macOS 12 with regular updates as of early 2026. Brave and Microsoft Edge may also offer limited compatibility, though their long-term support for Monterey remains uncertain. Firefox stands out as the most reliable alternative, thanks to Mozilla’s commitment to user privacy and cross-platform accessibility. Switching browsers isn’t ideal for everyone, but it’s a viable stopgap for users stuck on older systems.
Security Risks of Sticking With an Outdated Browser
Using an unsupported browser is like leaving your front door unlocked in a high-crime neighborhood. Without automatic updates, known vulnerabilities stay unpatched. Attackers actively scan for such weaknesses to steal passwords, banking details, or even hijack your entire system. Chrome’s sandboxing and Safe Browsing features—key defenses against modern threats—won’t evolve beyond version 150 on Monterey. Over time, websites may also stop rendering correctly, breaking functionality on everything from email to e-commerce platforms.
What Google’s Move Means for the Broader Ecosystem
This shift reflects a larger industry trend: tech companies are tightening OS requirements to push users toward more secure, efficient environments. Apple did the same when it dropped support for macOS Big Sur in its own apps. While inconvenient for some, this cycle drives innovation and reduces fragmentation. Developers can focus resources on fewer platforms, delivering better experiences faster. For users, it’s a nudge—sometimes a firm one—to keep their digital foundation current in an increasingly hostile online world.
How to Prepare Before Chrome 150 Arrives
Start by auditing your Mac’s capabilities. If an OS upgrade is possible, schedule it during a low-workload period and ensure you have a full backup via Time Machine. If not, test alternative browsers now—import bookmarks, check extension compatibility, and assess performance. Also, review your online accounts for two-factor authentication and consider using a password manager to reduce reliance on browser-stored credentials. Preparation minimizes disruption when Chrome 150 finally ships.
The Bottom Line for macOS Monterey Users
Google’s decision isn’t personal—it’s practical. But it does place responsibility squarely on users to act before mid-2026. Whether through a macOS upgrade or a browser switch, staying protected requires movement. Ignoring the warning could leave you vulnerable at a time when cyber threats grow more sophisticated by the day. The good news? You’ve got months to adapt. Use them wisely.
Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late
Chrome 150’s arrival marks the end of an era for macOS Monterey—but not the end of safe, modern browsing. With planning and a few proactive steps, you can navigate this transition smoothly. Remember: software sunsets aren’t roadblocks; they’re signposts pointing toward a safer, faster digital future. And in 2026, that future runs on updated systems and vigilant habits.
