ml-explore/mlx

Why is `MLX_BUILD_METAL` disabled on iOS

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#3,493 opened on May 8, 2026

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 (5 comments) (0 reactions) (0 assignees)C++ (1,794 forks)batch import
enhancementgood first issue

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Description

When targeting iOS, the CMAKE_SYSTEM_NAME fails the Darwin equality check, resulting in MLX_BUILD_METAL being disabled. Does MLX Metal not work on iOS?

Contributor guide

Research direction
Investigate the CMake code that checks for Darwin and see why iOS is not matching; then add iOS support by expanding the condition.
Tech stack
cpp
Domain
build system
Issue type
Bug
DifficultyEstimated implementation difficulty for a new contributor, from 1 for very small changes to 5 for expert-level work.
2
Estimated timeA rough time range for an experienced contributor to investigate, implement, test, and prepare a pull request.
Half day
Activity statusHow available the issue appears right now: fresh, active, stale, blocked, or waiting on maintainer input.
Active
ClarityHow clearly the issue explains the expected change, acceptance criteria, and next step.
Clear
Prerequisites
CMake
Newbie friendlinessA 1-100 score estimating how approachable this issue is for first-time contributors.
70