# Run macOS Software on Linux Use your favorite macOS apps on Linux with Darling - **Source:** [Hacker News](https://news.ycombinator.com) - **Published:** 2026-08-31 - **Topic:** [Software & Engineering](https://brifing.si/c/engineering) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/eb697cbd-5e4a-4027-97b0-2c29b61df73b ## What is Darling? Darling is a translation layer that enables running macOS software on Linux. It executes macOS applications directly without hardware emulation. Distributed as free and open-source software under GNU GPL license, the project is actively developed on GitHub. It implements all core Darwin components including Mach microkernel and dyld linker. ## How It Works Darling creates a complete Darwin environment with Mach microkernel, dyld linker, and launchd process manager. It handles most setup processes automatically for users. Similar to how Wine enables Windows software, Darling does the same for macOS applications. The project ensures seamless integration of apps into Linux desktop environments. ## Graphics Support The project now offers experimental support for running simple graphical applications after extensive development efforts. The team works to make apps look and behave like native Linux applications. Users can enjoy their favorite macOS software on Linux systems without major compatibility issues. ## Technical Infrastructure Darling builds upon Apple's open-source Darwin codebase. It utilizes The Cocotron and GNUstep projects for Cocoa implementation. Enhanced with components like Apportable Foundation, the project welcomes contributors regardless of macOS development experience. The open nature encourages community participation. ## Windows WSL Compatibility Darling also works on Windows Subsystem for Linux 2 (WSL 2), expanding its user base to Windows users. Comprehensive documentation covers installation and usage details. This cross-platform capability significantly increases the project's potential audience and application scenarios. ## iOS Application Goals Long-term plans include running iOS apps on ARM devices, particularly Android phones. Implementing UIKit presents a significant technical challenge. The team invites interested developers to contribute to this ambitious aspect of the project. ## Community Contribution Prospective contributors should start by reviewing project documentation and blog posts. Participation occurs through GitHub repositories. While macOS/iOS development experience helps, it's not mandatory. The project embraces open-source values and welcomes diverse contributions. ## Why It Matters Darling represents a significant advancement in cross-platform software compatibility. It bridges the gap between Linux users and macOS ecosystem. The open-source nature ensures transparent, community-driven development. The project pioneers new possibilities in software interoperability across operating systems. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.darlinghq.org/ — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._