With every new generation of iPhones and iOS updates, users often face compatibility issues with older apps. These apps may stop working, crash, lose functionality, or even disappear from the App Store. As a result, you cannot enter the best online casino and play your favorite games or even open your bank app and send money to your landlord. This happens for various reasons, such as changes in iOS architecture, outdated code, or developers discontinuing support.
Let’s explore the main reasons for incompatibility, ways to fix these issues, and tips to avoid similar problems in the future.
Why Do Old Apps Stop Working on New iPhones?
iOS Updates and Their Impact on Compatibility
Each iOS update introduces changes to system requirements, APIs, and app structures. Outdated technologies may be removed, and new requirements can render older apps incompatible. For example, iOS 14 changed how apps access the camera and microphone, causing crashes in some applications.
Outdated Code and Architectural Issues
Older apps may rely on outdated libraries, 32-bit architecture, or deprecated APIs. For instance, Apple’s shift to 64-bit processors in iOS 11 ended support for 32-bit apps, leading to widespread incompatibility. Apps that haven’t been updated in years are particularly prone to such issues.
Key Signs of Compatibility Issues
App Crashes or Fails to Launch
If an app closes immediately after opening, it may be due to outdated code or lack of support for the latest iOS version.
Glitches, Bugs, or Malfunctions
Some features may not work correctly. For example, you might notice interface elements displaying incorrectly, lagging, or losing functionality. This is common in graphic editors or media apps.
Installation or Update Errors
An app may fail to install or update due to incompatibility with the current iOS version or lack of developer support. Sometimes, you’ll see a message stating the app isn’t compatible with your device.
How to Check App Compatibility with a New iPhone
Check App Store Information
Before downloading, visit the app’s page in the App Store. The “Compatibility” section lists the iOS versions the app supports. It may change when the new app version is released.
Verify iOS Version Compatibility
If an app hasn’t been updated in years, it likely doesn’t support newer iOS versions. Pay attention to the date of the last update.
You can also visit the developer’s website to see if they’ve announced plans for future updates.
What to Do If an App Doesn’t Work?
Update to the Latest Version
The first step is to check for updates in the App Store. Developers often release updates to adapt apps to new iOS versions and devices.
Look for Alternatives
If the developer has discontinued support, consider switching to alternative apps. For example:
- For outdated media players, try VLC or Infuse.
- For office apps, consider Microsoft Office or Google Docs.
Use Compatibility Mode or Emulators
You can run older apps using virtual machines or emulators, though this requires technical knowledge and tools. For example, AltStore allows you to sideload older versions of some apps if you have their IPA files.
How Developers Adapt Apps for New Devices
Updating APIs and Architecture
Developers update their code, replace outdated APIs, and adapt apps to meet modern iOS requirements. For example, transitioning from Objective-C to Swift simplifies working with the latest iOS features.
Optimizing for New Screens and Processors
New iPhones come with improved performance, higher-resolution screens, and advanced display technologies. Adapting apps to these features ensures proper interface display and functionality. For instance, apps not optimized for iPhone X and newer models may display with black bars.