Support Ending for Intel-based Apps on Mac
Some Mac users may see a notification that says an app, such as ActivInspire, will not open in a future release of macOS. This article explains what the message means, what staff should do now, and when to contact KCS Information Technology.
Quick answer: This warning does not mean the app has stopped working today. If the app still opens normally, you may continue using it while beginning to plan for a future transition.
What does "Support Ending for Intel-based Apps" mean?
Apple silicon Macs can currently run many older Intel-based apps through Rosetta. Rosetta works in the background and translates older Intel-based apps so they can run on newer Apple silicon Macs.
The notification means macOS detected that the app, or part of the app, still depends on Intel-based code. Apple is phasing out broad Rosetta support in future macOS releases, so apps that are not updated may eventually stop opening.
What does the message look like?
The alert may appear as a macOS notification similar to this:
Support Ending for Intel-based Apps
This version of "ActivInspire" will not open in a future release of macOS. Learn how to update to an Apple silicon version.
Screenshot reference:
Does this mean ActivInspire is broken?
No. If ActivInspire still opens and your flipcharts are available, the app is still usable on your current Mac and macOS version. The message is a future compatibility warning.
If ActivInspire does not open, or if your flipcharts are missing or damaged, contact the Support Desk for help.
Should I install regular macOS updates?
Minor macOS updates, such as moving from macOS Tahoe 26.5 to macOS Tahoe 26.5.1, are not expected to remove Rosetta or immediately prevent ActivInspire from opening. These updates often include security fixes and reliability improvements.
Staff should follow normal KCS macOS update guidance unless KCS Information Technology has issued a specific hold notice for a particular update.
Why is ActivInspire affected?
ActivInspire is considered a legacy application. Promethean has shifted focus toward newer platforms and tools, including the ActivSuite ecosystem. Because ActivInspire still depends on older Intel-based components on Apple silicon Macs, it should be treated as a product that will need a long-term replacement or migration path.
⚠️ Important: KCS does not recommend waiting until a future macOS release removes support. Staff who rely on ActivInspire should begin preserving important instructional materials now.
What should I do with my flipcharts?
Use the current school year as a transition period. Start with the flipcharts you use most often rather than trying to convert everything at once.
- Export frequently used flipcharts to PDF for archival and presentation use.
- Convert lessons into PowerPoint presentations when future editing is needed.
- Recreate high-value lessons in Google Slides or another web-based platform.
- Watch for additional KCS guidance as replacement or migration options are confirmed.
Do I need to bring my laptop to school?
Not for this warning by itself. If ActivInspire still opens and your files are available, no appointment is required. Contact the Support Desk if the app does not open, if files are missing, or if you need help determining the best preservation format for specific lessons.
This alert should be treated as a compatibility warning unless the application does not open. Confirm whether the app launches and whether the user's files are accessible before escalating as a break/fix issue.
- To identify app architecture, select the app in Finder, choose File > Get Info, and check Kind.
- Application (Intel) means the app requires Rosetta on Apple silicon Macs.
- Application (Universal) or Application (Apple silicon) means the app does not require Rosetta by default.
- For instructional migration questions, help connect the user with the iLearn team when appropriate.
| Situation | Resolution |
|---|---|
| The alert appears, but the app opens normally. | Continue using the app for now. Begin preserving important content and watch for future KCS guidance. |
| ActivInspire does not open. | Submit a ticket so KCS Information Technology can review the device, macOS version, Rosetta status, and application install. |
| Flipcharts are missing, damaged, or will not open. | Submit a ticket and include the location of the affected files if known. |
| A user needs help deciding how to preserve lessons. | Start with the most frequently used lessons. Consider PDF, PowerPoint, Google Slides, or future KCS-supported Promethean options. |
| A user asks whether to install a minor macOS 26.x update. | Follow normal KCS macOS update guidance unless KCS Information Technology has issued a specific hold notice. |
Last updated: June 09, 2026 · KCS Information Technology · Support Desk: 865-594-1830 · Submit a Ticket