Container (by Apple) is an open-source CLI tool written in Swift optimized for Apple Silicon that allows running Linux containers as lightweight virtual machines. It uses Virtualization.framework to wrap OCI-compliant images into isolated microVMs on macOS. Perfect for container development workflows without Docker Desktop.
Features
- Runs OCI images as lightweight VM-based Linux containers on macOS
- Written in Swift, optimized for Apple Silicon performance
- Leverages Virtualization.framework for isolation and efficiency
- Pulls and runs standard Docker/OCI images without external runtime
- Integrates into CLI workflows for development and scripting
- Minimal footprint and direct integration with macOS toolchains
