How to run Intel apps on M1 Mac?

  1. Open an application made for Intel-based Macs (e.g. WALTR PRO)
  2. Install Rosetta. The tool will run in the background and translate the application for use with Apple Silicon.
  3. Now, to identify applications that need Rosetta or can use Rosetta,  click Get Info
  4. Select the application in the Finder.
  5. Select Get Info from the File menu.
  6. See information marked Kind:
  7. Application (Intel) - you need to use Rosetta to run it.
  8. Application (Universal).

Can Mac M1 run Intel apps?

Yes, Rosetta 2 allows an Apple-based Mac to use applications created for an Intel-based Mac.

 

You can open the Get Info window to identify if WALTR PRO need Rosetta or can use Rosetta. To do this, open the Applications folder, right-click on WALTR PRO, and select the Get Info option.

 

When the program window opens, look at the information labeled Kind. If you see

  • Application (Intel) – This means that the program only supports Intel processors and will use Rosetta to run on any Mac with Apple Silicon and avoid compatibility issues.
  • Application (universal) - Specifies that the application supports both Apple silicon and Intel processors and chooses to use Apple silicon by default.

Check the Open using Rosetta box.

 

You will be prompted to install Rosetta the first time you want to open an application made for an Intel-based Mac. So, if you have a MacBook with Apple Silicon, click the Install button.

Next, when prompted for a username and password, enter them to allow the installation.

Once installed, its architecture will be available to any other programs that need it to work. You won't be requested to install it again. However, if you choose not to install Rosetta the first time, you will be prompted again the next time you open an application that requires Rosetta.

Be aware that Rosetta automatically runs in the background whenever you try to run an application designed specifically for Intel-based Macs. It translates the program for use with Apple silicon. Also, you might not even notice it's running because there's hardly any difference in performance for an application that needs Rosetta.