ExpressVPN, our top-rated VPN, has released the latest version of its program for Mac. ExpressVPN for Mac is now designed to work natively on newer devices with M1 or M2 chips without first being translated by a third-party program. According to ExpressVPN, the app “works even more seamlessly on the newest model of Mac computer, allowing users to enjoy a performance boost with lower battery consumption.”
ExpressVPN for Mac uses a universal binary code, so even older Macs can use the program with no problem. Other key benefits of ExpressVPN for Mac include servers in 94 different countries, improved DNS leak protection, and split tunneling features. ExpressVPN is also available in 16 different languages.
What are Apple’s M1 and M2 chips?
For years, Apple, along with most of the tech world, has used Intel CPU chips in their devices. CPUs simplify all the processes inside the computer, manage memory, instruct other parts of the device how to do their work, and keep everything connected. In a way, the CPU is the brain of a computer.
In the last couple of years, Apple has started making its own processors known as M-series chips. The first one, dubbed the M1, released in late 2020, was a little buggy and a little slower than Intel processors. But it was also a good starting point for Apple to learn more about what was needed in real-life apps. The following year, Apple released the M1 Pro and M1 Max. The last chip, M2, was released last June. So far it’s been an impressive upgrade to the M1 chips with faster process times and less battery usage.
Because M-series chips are so new, many Mac applications are not designed to run directly on these processors. Instead, Mac programs need to be translated by a third-party program known as Rosetta 2 to work. In some ways, it’s similar to running an iPhone 10 app on an iPhone 13. Users may get some benefit from the program, but will likely notice some lag, differences in operations, and some lack of functionality. Once a version 10 is available, the entire program works as it should.
Until now, ExpressVPN was not fully compatible with M1 and M2 chips. As with most Mac programs, when installed, users will also be prompted to download and configure Rosetta 2. The latest version of ExpressVPN means Mac users have full access to its features and functions with no steps required. or extra programs.
Other VPNs Optimized for M1 and M2
ExpressVPN is one of the most popular VPN companies in the world. It has an impressive user base and has been providing privacy protection since 2009. However, it is not the first to offer a native M-series VPN.
NordVPN released its native M1 version in August 2021, a full year ahead of ExpressVPN. Since it already supported the Mac at the entry level, it wasn’t difficult to tweak it to work perfectly with other M chips as they came out.
Another pioneer company to offer a native M1 VPN was SurfShark VPN, which launched its program in May 2021. Like ExpressVPN and NordVPN, SurfShark used a universal code to ensure easy updates and quick compatibility with other M-series chips. .
The first native M1 VPN client to be released was from VyprVPN. This app was released in March 2021 and is now also compatible with other Apple M chips.