IOS – How to users identify which of their iPhone/iPad apps are still only 32-bit (and therefore won’t work in future)

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Many iPhone/iPad users still use apps on their devices which are only 32-bit. These apps will not work in future if users upgrade to iOS 11, unless of course the apps themselves are updated to run natively in 64-bit.

This being the case, users may want to identify any important apps they have installed that will become useless if they upgrade to iOS 11 in a few months. By doing this users can prepare for the upgrade by:

  • contacting the developer to confirm their future development plans, and
  • finding alternative apps that will meet their needs

How can users identify which of their currently installed apps are still only 32-bit?

Best Answer

In iOS 10.3 and above, users can:

  1. Go to Settings
  2. Swipe up and tap on General
  3. Tap on About
  4. Tap on Applications

A list will appear showing all of the apps you have installed that won’t run in 64-bit mode. Now you can tap on any of your important apps to determine if it is still available on the App Store. If…

  • you get a message indicating it is not available, it’s quite likely that the app is no longer supported. You should try contacting the developer to check whether it will be updated.
  • you’re taken directly to the App Store, then the app is still available and you’ll need to contact the developer to confirm their plans for 64-bit support.

This process is the recommended approach for ensuring you don’t get caught out when iOS 11 is released later in the year.

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