Apple has informed its developers that starting from February, all new iOS apps submitted to the Apple Store must feature 64-bit support. This significant change aims to enhance the performance and efficiency of apps on Apple’s latest devices.
They also announced that all new applications must be built using the iOS 8 SDK. All of Apple’s latest devices, including the two new iPhone 6 models and the new iPads, come equipped with 64-bit processors. This move ensures that apps are optimized for the latest hardware, providing a smoother and more responsive user experience.
Starting February 1, 2015, new iOS apps uploaded to the App Store must include 64-bit support and be built with the iOS 8 SDK, included in Xcode 6 or later. To enable 64-bit in your project, we recommend using the default Xcode build setting of “Standard architectures” to build a single binary with both 32-bit and 64-bit code.
Why 64-bit Support Matters
The majority of the iOS devices that Apple now sells come with a 64-bit processor. The only device that doesn’t feature a 64-bit processor is the iPhone 5C. The transition to 64-bit architecture is a significant milestone in mobile computing. It allows for more efficient processing, better memory management, and the ability to handle more complex applications and games.
For developers, this means they need to ensure their apps are compatible with both 32-bit and 64-bit architectures. This dual compatibility is crucial because it allows the apps to run on older devices that still use 32-bit processors. By building a single binary with both 32-bit and 64-bit code, developers can ensure their apps are accessible to a broader audience, including users with older devices.
Impact on Developers and Users
This new requirement from Apple will have a significant impact on developers. They will need to update their development environments and possibly refactor their code to support 64-bit architecture. While this may seem like an additional burden, it ultimately benefits both developers and users. Apps that support 64-bit architecture can take full advantage of the latest hardware improvements, leading to better performance and a more seamless user experience.
For users, this change means that new apps will be more efficient and capable of leveraging the full power of their devices. This is particularly important for resource-intensive applications such as games, video editing software, and other multimedia apps. Users can expect faster load times, smoother animations, and overall better performance.
Moreover, this move aligns with Apple’s long-term strategy of phasing out older technologies and encouraging the adoption of newer, more advanced hardware and software solutions. By setting a clear deadline, Apple is pushing the developer community to stay current with the latest technological advancements, ensuring that the App Store remains a cutting-edge platform for mobile applications.
In conclusion, Apple’s requirement for 64-bit support in all new iOS apps starting February 2015 is a forward-thinking move that will benefit both developers and users. It ensures that apps are optimized for the latest hardware, providing a better user experience and paving the way for more advanced and capable applications in the future.
Source Apple Insider
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