Navigating Xcode's Shift Away from Rosetta: What You Need to Know
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The Future of Xcode and Rosetta
If you've been utilizing the Xcode Rosetta workaround, it's time to reconsider your strategy. Recent updates from the Xcode 14.3 beta have made it clear that Xcode will no longer support Rosetta.
This shift is highlighted in the release notes, which reference Developer Technote "Resolving architecture build errors on Apple silicon" for further details (92772361). If you’re an app developer and this news flies under your radar, consider yourself fortunate. However, for those of you who feel the weight of this announcement, it’s critical to stay informed.
The Shift is Imminent
For those relying on the Xcode Rosetta workaround to manage legacy CocoaPod libraries and build processes on Apple Silicon, be prepared for challenges ahead. The day will arrive—sooner rather than later—when you’ll find it impossible to build and distribute your apps.
As a reminder, every spring, Apple requires developers to use the latest versions of Xcode and library SDKs to submit applications to the App Store.
Implications for Vendors and SDK Developers
If you’re a vendor or an SDK developer who has neglected to deliver updated libraries, it’s time to be concerned. Should your customers struggle to build applications with outdated dependencies, they are likely to seek alternatives.
My experience in the financial sector has highlighted the frustrations with numerous vendors—many of whom are major Fortune 100 companies—who fail to properly support the latest versions of Xcode and iOS.
The Responsibility of Clients
If you are a developer or a business relying on these unreliable services, it’s essential to reach out and directly inquire about their plans to address this issue. Make it clear that if they can’t meet your needs, you’ll explore other options.
Your app’s performance and visibility on the App Store depend on holding these providers accountable.
Understanding the Timeline
Apple enforces the use of current Xcode versions and library SDKs each spring for App Store submissions. The question remains whether any version of Xcode 14 will suffice, or if the term "deprecated" indicates a future removal of this capability. If a version still supports Rosetta, you might breathe a little easier—at least until next year or perhaps until the release of Xcode 15.
Beta Considerations
This information originates from the Xcode 14.3 beta release notes, and there’s a possibility that if enough stakeholders express concern, Apple may reconsider its approach. They’ve done this before, but I believe there’s a strong chance Apple will maintain its course. After all, companies have had ample time—two years—to adapt to Apple Silicon’s requirements.
Final Thoughts
That’s the gist of the latest developments I wanted to share. Keep these changes in mind as you navigate the evolving landscape of app development.
Chapter 2: Resources for Transitioning Away from Rosetta
Explore a new, improved approach to using Xcode under Rosetta with this insightful video.
Learn how to build your iOS Xcode project with Rosetta, especially for Mac M1 and newer models in this comprehensive tutorial.