Apple isn’t leaving older devices behind with the release of iOS 7 this week. The company has released a new feature that allows users of older iOS devices to download the last compatible version of the app for the device’s current firmware. This means older devices will still be useful, but won’t get the latest and greatest app updates.
Users who attempt to install an app that’s incompatible with their firmware version will see a pop-up alerting them that the app is built for a certain iOS version. The alert will include buttons to cancel the download or to download the last compatible version of the app.
This new feature also benefits app developers since they don’t have to worry about creating multiple versions of the app for older devices. This gives apps a larger user base, even if its from users of older devices.
Many older devices won’t get iOS 7 at all, which will eventually lead to a lack of apps for older devices. With the “last compatible version” feature, older devices have a new lease on life, even if they’re going to be running outdated apps.
