How to Install Apps on an Older iPhone or iPad That Can’t Update
Still holding onto your older iPhone or iPad? If your device still works like a charm, you probably don’t feel any rush to upgrade. After all, you can still call, text, browse, and do just about everything you need. But there’s one big headache: some apps won’t download anymore.
When you try to grab a new app or update an existing one, you might run into messages like:
- “This application requires iOS X.X or later.”
- “Cannot Download. This app is not compatible with your device.”
Frustrating, right? Especially when your device can’t update to the latest iOS or iPadOS because Apple stopped supporting it. But here’s the good news: you might still be able to install many apps by downloading an older, compatible version. Let’s walk through how to do it.
Why Apps Won’t Install on Older Devices
As iOS and iPadOS evolve, older devices often get left behind. Apple eventually stops updating older models when their hardware can no longer keep up with newer features and security demands. This means that many apps are designed for newer systems, and older devices are locked out.
Here’s an updated look at the highest iOS or iPadOS versions supported by many older devices:
| Device | Highest iOS/iPadOS Version |
|---|---|
| iPhone 6s, 6s Plus, iPhone SE (1st gen) | iOS 15.8.2 |
| iPhone 7, 7 Plus | iOS 15.8.2 |
| iPhone 8, 8 Plus, iPhone X | iOS 16.7.8 |
| iPhone XS, XS Max, XR | iOS 17.5.1 |
| iPhone 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max | iOS 17.5.1 |
| iPad Air 2 | iPadOS 15.8.2 |
| iPad mini 4 | iPadOS 15.8.2 |
| iPad 5th Generation | iPadOS 16.7.8 |
| iPad 6th and 7th Generation | iPadOS 17.5.1 |
| iPad Pro (1st Gen, 9.7-inch and 12.9-inch) | iPadOS 16.7.8 |
| Older models like iPhone 5s, iPhone 6, iPad mini 2 | iOS 12.5.5 or earlier |
Devices stuck on iOS 15 or iOS 16 are starting to feel the pinch because many app developers are now targeting iOS 17 and beyond. As a result, you may not be able to download newer versions of apps, or you might see errors when trying to install or update.
How to Download Apps on an Older iPhone or iPad
There are two methods you can try — depending on whether you’ve already installed the app before or not.
1. If You Previously Downloaded the App
If you had the app installed in the past (even if you deleted it), you can usually re-download the last compatible version. Here’s how:
- Sign in with the Apple ID you originally used to buy or download the app.
- Open the App Store on your old device.
- Tap the Today tab, then tap your profile icon (top right).
- Go to Purchased > My Purchases.
- Find the app you want, then tap the cloud icon next to it.
- You’ll see a pop-up saying something like:
“Download an older version of this app? The current version requires iOS X.X or later, but you can download the last compatible version.”
Tap Download, and it should install!
Tip: If you don’t see the app listed, make sure you’re checking under the correct Apple ID account.
2. If You Never Downloaded the App Before
If you’re trying to get an app you’ve never installed before, you’ll need a workaround:
- Find a newer device (yours, a family member’s, or a friend’s).
- Make sure you’re signed into your Apple ID on that device temporarily (ask your friend to sign out first if needed).
- Download the app from the App Store onto the newer device.
- Then, grab your older device:
- Open the App Store.
- Go to Purchased > My Purchases.
- You should now see the app there. Tap the cloud icon to download it.
- It will prompt you to install an older version that’s compatible with your device.
Important Notes:
- This method only works if the app developer has kept the older version available on Apple’s servers.
- Some apps may not show up immediately in your Purchased list — give it a little time.
Things to Keep in Mind
- Limited features: Older app versions may lack newer features or updates.
- Performance issues: Some apps could run slower or be prone to crashes on old hardware.
- App availability: If the developer removed the app entirely from the App Store, you won’t be able to download it at all.
Final Thoughts
Even if your iPhone or iPad can’t run the latest software, it doesn’t mean it’s useless. With a few extra steps, you can still enjoy many of your favorite apps and get more life out of your trusty device. It might take a little creativity, but it’s definitely possible — and often worth it!
