How long is Apple Monterey 12.5 supported?

FWIW, You are never "forced" to purchase a new Mac just because a macOS version is no longer supported. My g/f is running High Sierra on her 2011 iMac and it still does everything she needs.

Rudegar wrote:

I think some users are under the impression that when apple (or other manufacturers for that matter) stop supporting a device / os, it turns into a beacon to hackers to come get it.

Indeed.

GGTDriver wrote:

I have an older Macbook Air and Monterey 12.5 will be the last OS update. How long will the OS be supported before I am forced to buy a new Macbook?

You can compare past macOS that are still supported...

The macOS does not make the machine obsolete, and Apple does not force you to buy a new Mac...this seems misguided, or bit cheeky...

unsupported hardware may restrict the next macOS upgrade...

you can read more:

see vintage and obsolete:

Obtaining service for your Apple product after an expired warranty - Apple Support

Obtaining service for your Apple product after an expired ...

macOS Ventura hardware requirements

see if you qualify: macOS Ventura Preview - Apple

Generally and from Observations Only.

Three years from the Date of Release to the Public Released Oct 25, 2021

I think some users are under the impression that when apple (or other manufacturers for that matter) stop supporting a device / os, it turns into a beacon to hackers to come get it.