Developers have had sufficient time to upgrade their apps to 64-bit. Since the introduction of the iPhone 5S in 2013, the first iOS device utilizing a 64-bit processor, subsequent successors also embraced the 64-bit architecture. Clearly, Apple's developmental direction has been evident since that time.
Apple announces the discontinuation of 187,000 applications with the introduction of iOS 11
With the upcoming release of iOS 11, users have been informed that 32-bit apps will no longer function on the latest iOS versions. App developers are advised to promptly upgrade their apps to 64-bit. Stay tuned for the latest features in iOS 11: New Features in iOS 11
32-bit games and apps
However, Sensor Tower estimates that there are still approximately 200,000 32-bit apps present in the App Store at this moment. Without any changes, about 8% of the current apps on the App Store are at risk of discontinuation when Apple introduces iOS 11 next month.
Even though Apple is set to release iOS 11 next month, the disappearance of 32-bit apps won't happen overnight. Sensor Tower states that Apple will continue to allow users on devices not running iOS 11 to download 32-bit apps. However, with Apple retiring 187,000 apps upon the iOS 11 launch, all 32-bit apps will eventually be phased out.
Apple plans to release additional information about iOS 11 before officially introducing the new iOS operating system next month. The company is collaborating with developers to prevent the use of prohibited apps. If you're an iPhone or iPad user, it's advisable to explore and consider whether upgrading to iOS 11 is the right choice for your device.
