# Apple’s M4 Macs: Performance Enhancements and Virtual Machine Issues
Apple is in the spotlight following the release of its latest series of computers powered by the M4 chip, which includes the MacBook Pro, iMac, and Mac mini. These devices are touted to deliver substantial performance gains, especially in artificial intelligence (AI) applications. Nonetheless, users have faced a significant challenge when trying to operate virtual machines (VMs) with previous versions of macOS on these new systems.
## M4 Macs and Virtual Machines
Researcher Csaba Fitzl has pointed out a serious compatibility challenge impacting the newest Macs outfitted with the M4 chip. In particular, these systems have difficulties running virtual machines using macOS versions earlier than Ventura 13.4. This problem permeates all virtualization software for macOS, resulting in a frustrating situation for users dependent on older operating systems for their tasks.
When they try to launch a virtual machine on an M4 Mac with macOS 13.3 or earlier, users encounter a black screen, leading to the failure of the VM to initiate. Even after tweaking settings within the virtualization software or attempting to start the VM in Recovery mode, the result is unchanged. In contrast, Macs utilizing the M1, M2, or M3 chips do not face this issue, enabling users to run prior macOS versions without any complications.
### The Riddle Behind the Bug
The root cause of this bug remains unclear. Fitzl mentions that the inability to boot stops users from viewing the VM’s logs, which might shed light on the matter. Additionally, the logs from the host machine show no indications of issues during the start-up of virtualization processes, suggesting that the trouble likely occurs during the early kernel boot phase.
Considering the nature of the issue, a resolution may necessitate Apple to provide new IPSW files for older macOS versions to maintain compatibility with M4 Macs. However, the probability of such an update is deemed low, leaving users with restricted alternatives.
### Effects on Users
For those who rely on virtual machines with macOS versions prior to 13.4, understanding this compatibility challenge is vital before upgrading to an M4 Mac. Apple has yet to recognize this issue, which adds to the uncertainty for users contemplating a move to the new hardware.
In comparison, other Apple Silicon Macs, such as those with M1, M2, or M3 chips, can support virtual machines running macOS 12 Monterey or later. The suggested minimum version for these Macs is macOS 12.4, ensuring a more seamless virtualization experience.
### Improvements in macOS Sequoia
On a related note, the forthcoming macOS Sequoia has introduced various enhancements for virtual machines, including full support for signing into iCloud accounts—capabilities that were previously absent on Mac VMs. This advancement reflects Apple’s dedication to improving the virtualization experience, despite the ongoing challenges with the M4 Macs.
## Conclusion
While Apple’s M4 Macs showcase remarkable performance enhancements, especially in the realm of AI tasks, the issues linked to operating virtual machines with older macOS versions remain significant. Users dependent on virtualization for their tasks should meticulously evaluate these compatibility challenges prior to upgrading to the latest hardware. As the situation evolves, it will be interesting to see whether Apple will tackle these concerns or offer solutions for the affected users.
