Linux Driver Now Supports Intel Powered Macs
Developers have successfully ported the Apple Silicon macsmc Linux driver to work with Intel-based Apple computers.
Updated on Oct. 30, 2026 in Computers
Engineers have expanded the utility of the macsmc Linux driver by adapting it for use on Intel-powered Macs. The initiative replaces the aging applesmc driver, which proved difficult to maintain and scale for newer hardware requirements.
Why it matters
The transition to the macsmc driver architecture streamlines development by unifying fan control, sensor management, and backlight operations across both Apple Silicon and Intel platforms. This approach leverages shared code from the Asahi project to improve long-term support and stability for Linux users on Apple hardware.
The new implementation manages fan control, system sensors, light sensors, motion sensors, and keyboard backlights. It utilizes shared code from the Asahi project, allowing the driver to operate on SMC hardware regardless of whether it is powered by Apple Silicon or Intel.
The players
Apple
This technology company designs and manufactures the hardware systems that rely on the System Management Controller for internal operations.
Asahi project
This open-source initiative focuses on reverse engineering and developing Linux support for Apple hardware.
The details
Developers adapted existing code originally written for Apple Silicon to support the older Intel architecture. Because the System Management Controller hardware functions identically on both platform types, the shared codebase allows for more efficient updates.
Timeline
October 30, 2026: The implementation was confirmed for broader use.
The Tech Race
The adaptation of this driver follows a pattern of community-led development established by the Asahi project. This move bridges the gap between hardware architectures, effectively replacing legacy drivers that could no longer keep pace with modern Linux kernel demands.
Linux users on Intel Macs will benefit from more reliable fan control and better management of system sensors and backlights. The unified driver simplifies the installation process for those running open-source operating systems on older Apple hardware.
The takeaway
Adopting a unified driver architecture allows for significantly better hardware management on aging devices. Users should monitor updates for their specific Linux distribution to ensure they receive the latest kernel support for these sensor functions.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest developments in Computers.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Phoronix.
