Search
Search
Published: April 12, 2018 | Source: Apple | Author: Mark Campbell

Apple is preparing to drop support for 32-bit applications in macOS

Apple is preparing to drop support for 32-bit applications in macOS

Apple is preparing to drop support for 32-bit applications in macOS

64-bit hardware has been commonplace for quite some time in both the desktop and mobile CPU markets, though despite this 32-bit applications remain common, especially within the consumer PC market. 

Apple has announced that they plan to remove support for 32-bit applications in a future version of MacOS, issuing an alert for users of macOS High Sierra 10.13.4 whenever 32-bit processes run. This warning will only be delivered to users once per application, allowing them to search for a 64-bit version of the application or push the app’s developer to create a more up-to-date version. 

This process has already been completed on iOS, forcing software developers to create 64-bit versions of their products. 32-bit has been used for a much longer time of x86 desktop PCs, making the transition a lot more difficult for users. When Apple replaces macOS High Sierra, it is likely that the OS will lose support for 32-bit applications, potentially wiping the Mac App Store clean of 32-bit products in the process.  

  

     Why am I seeing this alert?

Starting with macOS High Sierra 10.13.4, apps that have not been updated to use 64-bit processes produce a one-time alert when opened. This gives users advance notice that they are running 32-bit software, which will not be compatible with macOS in the future.

Can I keep using my 32-bit apps?

Yes, you may continue to use 32-bit apps with your Mac today. Using 32-bit software has no adverse effects on your data or your computer.

When will the 64-bit transition be complete?

The 64-bit transition for macOS and macOS apps is still underway, so final transition dates have not yet been established. But now is a good time to check with the software developer to see if 64-bit versions of your favorite titles are available.

 

Apple is preparing to drop support for 32-bit applications in macOS

 
These warning will start appearing to Mac users over the next few days, alerting users whether not their applications need to be updated. PC hardware has supported 64-bit operations for quite some time, making this transition seamless from a hardware perspective. 

In recent months Nvidia has announced that they are dropping 32-bit support from their GPU drivers and Blizzard revealed plans to remove 32-bit OS support from Heroes of the Storm, their MOBA game. 

You can join the discussion on Apple’s plans to drop 32-bit application support on the OC3D Forums. 

Latest News