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Filed under: OS Updates, Hardware, Apple

Atom support back in Mac OS X, Hackintosh netbooks not dead after all

We recently reported some bad news for Hackintosh enthusiasts: Apple's upcoming OS update, OS X 10.6.2, had removed support for Intel Atom processors. None of Apple's hardware uses Atom, but some of the most popular netbooks do, so that news affected a big chunk of the unauthorized OS X installs out there. With the latest developer build of 10.6.2, though, Apple seems to have flip-flopped and reintroduced Atom support.

A couple of possible explanations come to mind: removing Atom support could have been a bug, or it could have been an intentional, yet temporary, measure. On the other hand, maybe flipping the Atom switch back on is temporary. We really don't know, because Apple hasn't commented. The company is notorious for taking measures to keep its OS running exclusive on Macintosh hardware, so this could still go either way. For now, though, enjoy having a netbook with the very latest build of OS X

[via Engadget]

Filed under: OS Updates, Hardware, Apple

Apple breaks Atom Hackintoshes with upcoming OS X 10.6.2 update

According to OSXDaily, Apple's next scheduled update to Snow Leopard, OS X 10.6.2, doesn't support Intel Atom processors. This is no problem for anyone on Apple hardware, because no Mac product runs an Atom. If you're on a hacked netbook, though, it looks like this is the end of the line for your OS X updates.

Although it's not confirmed, rumor has it that next update to Apple's previous Leopard OS (10.5.9) will also knock out Atom support. Until a workaround pops up from netbook hacker circles, Atom machines running 10.6.1 and 10.5.8 should probably avoid upgrading. Is Apple sending a message to users running its software on third-party machines? It seems likely, but it also doesn't seem like it will do much to stop determined netbook enthusiasts.

Filed under: OS Updates, Macintosh, Apple

EFi-X USB dongle turns your PC into a Mac for $155

EFI-XNo, the EFi-X USB dongle doesn't turn John Hodgeman into Justin Long. But this little USB dongle, which we first mentioned in June, does let PC users install OS X without buying a Mac. And it's shipping now.

Just plug it into a USB port (according to Gizmodo, we're talking about the internal USB ports hidden inside your PC case, not the kind that hangs out in the front and back), and stick in an OS X install disc. No need to go through all the twists and turns that are typically associated with hacking OS X to make it run on non-Apple hardware.

Keep in mind, you're violating Apple's EULA if you install OS X on non-Apple hardware, even if you've legally paid for the operating system. But you can still probably put together a hackintosh complete with a licensed copy of OS X and a $155 EFi-X dongle for less than the price of an official Mac. Plus, there's a chance you may be able to run OS X on your current system. Just make sure to check the list of supported hardware before sending away for an EFi-X.

Filed under: Fun, Apple, Beta

Installing OS X on a Hackintosh (PC) has become simpler

HackintoshHave a decently equipped PC sitting in the corner of your room, gathering dust? Have you been dying to try OS X out?

It used to be that installing OS X on a "Hackintosh" (an Intel based PC running OS X) was an involved process that took hours and hours of hacking to get to work properly, sometimes with mixed results.

According to Lifehacker, you can now install Leopard on a cheap PC almost as easy as installing in an Apple device, sans the wicked command line hacking. Also, you can reportedly update your Leopard install without the fear of all your hard work falling down. It must be stated however, that installing OS X on a non-Apple product may be illegal, even if you have a legitimate installation disc. Proceed at your own risk.

The technique does not require a BIOS reflash, but just tweaking the BIOS settings to be friendly to the OS X install program. Next you download the DVD image and burn it to a DVD for use installing Leopard. We'd recommend actually buying Leopard if you're going to be using it for any amount of time. The final step involves booting the new DVD and running through the install process using the settings for your specific motherboard.

Have any experience with this install process and running OS X on a PC? We look forward to reading about them in the comments below.

[via Lifehacker]

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