Win32 on macOS (winehq.org)

Article summary

CodeWeavers has developed a solution to run 32-bit Windows applications on macOS Catalina using a custom version of the Clang compiler and modifications to Wine. The solution relies on a new feature of macOS Catalina that allows the creation of 32-bit code segments in a 64-bit process. The custom compiler has features that support building 32-on-64-bit Wine, including support for 32-bit Microsoft calling conventions and automatic generation of 32-to-64-bit thunks. The solution is included in CodeWeavers' source tarball.

Main themes

• 32-bit support on macOS
• Wine and CrossOver
• open-source collaboration
• software compatibility
• Apple's platform policies
• emulation and virtualization
• legacy software support

What commenters say

• The ability to run 32-bit Windows applications on macOS Catalina is impressive and a significant achievement.
• Apple's decision to remove 32-bit support on Catalina was inconvenient for many users, but the addition of support for local descriptor tables has enabled CrossOver's 32-on-64 support.
• The use of email and IRC for communication in open-source projects is effective and allows for asynchronous communication, which is beneficial for global collaboration.
• Some argue that Slack and Discord are not suitable for open-source projects due to their proprietary nature and limitations on log searchability, while others see them as useful tools for real-time support and community building.
• The longevity of software compatibility is a significant advantage of using Wine, as it allows users to run old software on new operating systems.
• The maintenance of 32-bit support on macOS is seen as a complex task that requires significant resources and effort.
• The development of open-source alternatives to proprietary software, such as Microsoft Office, is a long-term challenge that requires sustained effort and community engagement.