Apple has released the first developer beta of macOS Big Sur 11.4. The version includes an option for Intel-based Macs to connect to GPUs that use the AMD Navi RDNA2 architecture.
Apple supports very few GPUs on the market. In addition, only the Mac Pro has PCIe slots for easy installation of graphics cards. Intel-based MacBooks with Thunderbolt 3 ports can also run an external Thunderbolt enclosure with GPUs, which is called an eGPU. But now Apple has released the first beta version of macOS 11.4 published and in the update description mentioned support for three new GPUs from AMD. The listed GPUs run on the AMD Navi RDNA2 architecture and are part of the 6800, 6800XT and 6900XT series. The Navi RDNA2 architecture is known for use in the Playstation 5 and Xbox Series X consoles.
macOS 11.4: M1 Macs are left out
It's a powerful system that delivers up to 65% more performance per watt compared to the first-generation architecture. The new GPUs enable next-generation gaming features like ray tracing and faster rendering times. Using these GPUs will speed up graphics workflows or improve games - even on the Mac. Apple hasn't enabled GPU support on its latest M1-based Macs and may not do so. Future M-series processors could enable eGPU support. But there's no indication of a timeline for such a feature. Right now, only Intel-based Macs with Thunderbolt 3 can use eGPUs. (Photo by Unsplash / Ash Edmonds)
