With the release of iOS 17, Apple continues to push the boundaries of what is possible on mobile devices. But as with any major software update, not all phones will be able to run it. As an iOS developer, it’s important to stay up-to-date on which devices are compatible with the latest version of iOS so that you can ensure your apps are optimized for the best user experience possible.
iOS 17 Compatibility: A Snapshot
According to Apple, the following devices will be able to run iOS 17 when it is released:
- iPhone 12 Pro Max
- iPhone 12 Pro
- iPhone 12 Mini
- iPhone XS Max
- iPhone XS
- iPhone XR
- iPhone 8 Plus
- iPhone 8
- iPhone SE (2nd generation)
Note that these are the only devices that have been confirmed to be compatible with iOS 17 as of this writing. Apple has not yet announced any other devices that will be able to run the update.
Why is Compatibility Important for Developers?
As an iOS developer, it’s important to stay up-to-date on which devices are compatible with the latest version of iOS because it can have a significant impact on the performance and user experience of your apps. When a device runs an outdated version of iOS, it may not be able to run certain features or functions properly, which can lead to slowdowns, crashes, and other issues that can frustrate users.
In addition, if your app is not optimized for the latest version of iOS, it may not look or function as well as it could on newer devices. This can make your app less appealing to users who are using more advanced devices, which can ultimately lead to fewer downloads and lower revenue from in-app purchases.
Case Study: How Compatibility Improved App Performance
Let’s take a look at an example of how compatibility can impact the performance and user experience of an app. Suppose you are developing a new social media app that is designed to be highly interactive and engaging for users. If your app is not optimized for iOS 17, it may not run smoothly on devices that are running older versions of iOS, which could lead to slowdowns, crashes, and other issues that can frustrate users.
However, if you take the time to ensure that your app is optimized for iOS 17, it will be able to run more smoothly and efficiently on newer devices, which can improve the overall user experience and make your app more appealing to users who are using more advanced devices. In addition, by optimizing your app for the latest version of iOS, you can ensure that it is able to take advantage of new features and functions that are only available on newer devices, which can give your app a competitive edge over other apps in its category.
Research: The Impact of Compatibility on App Performance and Revenue
There have been numerous studies conducted that have shown the impact of compatibility on app performance and revenue. For example, a study by Sensor Tower found that apps that were not optimized for iOS 12 saw a decline in downloads and revenue compared to apps that were optimized for the latest version of iOS.
In addition, a study by AdMob found that apps that were optimized for the latest version of iOS saw a significant increase in revenue compared to apps that were not optimized for the latest version of iOS.