Oracle Deprecates macOS/x64 Port in JDK 27 as Apple Transitions to AArch64
Key Takeaways
- ▸Oracle will stop maintaining macOS/x64 port in JDK 27 due to high maintenance costs
- ▸Apple's hardware transition to AArch64 prompted the deprecation decision
- ▸Build attempts will fail by default; --enable-deprecated-ports flag bypasses the error
Summary
Oracle has announced the deprecation of the macOS/x64 port as of JDK 27, marking the end of official support for Java on Intel-based macOS systems. The decision reflects Apple's transition to AArch64 processors and the company's phasing out of x64 support, which Oracle engineers consider a significant maintenance burden.
Beginning with JDK 27, attempts to configure a macOS/x64 build will produce an error, though developers can suppress it using the --enable-deprecated-ports flag. However, there is no guarantee that the port will build or function correctly going forward. Oracle will disable the macOS/x64 port by default in the JDK repository's GitHub Actions to prevent it from blocking mainline development.
The deprecation is not irreversible. If a group of credible developers expresses a clear commitment to maintaining the port, Oracle can withdraw the deprecation via a follow-on Java Enhancement Proposal (JEP) before the port is ultimately removed.
- Community can potentially reverse the deprecation if developers commit to maintaining the port
