Moving from an Intel-based MacBook Pro (model 15,1) to an M1 Mac is a straightforward process using Apple's built-in tools. Because you are moving from Intel to Apple Silicon, macOS handles the architecture transition in the background.

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Before starting the migration, ensure both machines are prepared:

• Update Software: Ensure the source MacBook (15,1) is fully updated within Sequoia.
• Backup: Always maintain a current Time Machine backup before a major migration.
• Power: Plug both MacBooks into a reliable power source.
• Connection: For maximum speed, connect them via a Thunderbolt cable (see below). Otherwise, ensure both are on the same Wi-Fi network.

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1. Follow the setup assistant until you reach the Transfer Information to this Mac screen.
2. Select From a Mac, Time Machine backup, or Startup disk and click Continue.

1. Open Migration Assistant (found in Applications > Utilities).
2. Click Continue.
3. Select To another Mac and click Continue.

1. On the M1 Mac, select the icon for the Intel Mac. A security code will appear.
2. Verify the code matches on both screens.
3. Select the data categories you wish to move:
   • Applications: Most will run via Rosetta 2, but native versions are preferred.
   • User Accounts: Includes your files, Desktop, and Downloads.
   • Other Files & Folders: Standard documents and settings.
   • System & Network: Wi-Fi passwords and system preferences.
4. Click Continue to begin the transfer.

• Touch ID: You must re-enroll your fingerprints on the new hardware.
• Apple Wallet: Credit cards must be re-added manually for security.
• Software Optimization: Look for "Universal" versions of your apps to take full advantage of the M1 chip's speed.
• De-authorization: If disposing of the old Mac, sign out of iCloud and use Erase All Content and Settings in System Settings.

Note: If an app was built only for Intel, the M1 Mac will automatically ask you to install Rosetta 2 the first time you open that app.

It is a common point of confusion: while a Thunderbolt cable uses the USB-C connector shape, not every USB-C cable is a Thunderbolt cable.

A helpful analogy: USB-C is the shape of the plug, but Thunderbolt is the high-speed engine inside.

While they look identical at a glance, the hardware inside the cables is very different.

Because they look so similar, manufacturers use a specific marking system:

• The Lightning Bolt: Authentic Thunderbolt cables almost always have a small lightning bolt icon printed on the plastic housing of the plug.
• A Number: Many modern Thunderbolt 4 cables will also have a small "4" next to the bolt.
• The "Plain" Cable: If the cable is blank or only has a USB "trident" logo, it is likely a standard USB-C charging or data cable.

If you use a basic USB-C charging cable (like the white one that came with your MacBook's power brick) to connect the two Macs, the transfer will work, but it will be significantly slower. It can sometimes take 10+ hours for large amounts of data.

Using a true Thunderbolt cable creates a massive data "pipe" between the two machines, often cutting that transfer time down to an hour or two.

Pro Tip: If you don't want to buy a Thunderbolt cable for a one-time move, using a Time Machine backup on an external hard drive is often faster than using a basic USB-C cable or Wi-Fi.