After years of delay, Epic Games has finally released a native version of its Epic Games Launcher for Apple Silicon Macs. The update arrives five years after Apple’s first M1 Mac and marks the end of Epic’s dependence on Rosetta 2, Apple’s Intel-to-ARM translation software.
The new version 19 of the launcher, released quietly in early November 2025, is now listed as a Universal app. This means it supports both Intel and Apple Silicon Macs without needing Rosetta. The update brings better speed, stability, and efficiency for gamers and developers using Unreal Engine or downloading games through Epic’s store.
Why This Update Matters
Before this release, the Epic Games Launcher relied entirely on Intel code. On Apple Silicon, it had to run through Rosetta, which added roughly 10% extra resource usage. Now, users can enjoy smoother performance with lower system strain.
Apple has also made it clear that Intel support is coming to an end. During WWDC 2025, the company confirmed that macOS Tahoe would be the last full version to support Intel Macs. Rosetta 2 will start being phased out by 2027, making native apps essential for long-term compatibility.
This move puts Epic on equal footing with Valve’s Steam, which launched its native Apple Silicon client earlier in 2025. For Mac gamers, that means both major gaming platforms are now fully optimized for Apple’s modern hardware.
A Delayed but Needed Step
Epic’s slow transition has drawn attention, especially given the company’s ongoing disputes with Apple over App Store policies and fees. While the update came quietly, it’s a critical one. The change ensures Epic’s tools and games can run smoothly on current and future Macs.
Despite being late to the party, Epic’s new native launcher shows progress. It signals the company’s intent to keep its software relevant as Apple continues moving away from Intel.
For Mac gamers and developers, this update finally brings the experience they’ve been waiting for — fast, efficient, and built for Apple Silicon.
