Tomorrow at midnight PT, Apple will begin sending an alert message when you open a 32-bit app in MacOS 10.13.4, saying 'App Is Not Optimized for Your Mac': This app needs to be updated by developer to improve compatibility. It's a one-time (per app) alert, designed to help MacOS make the full transition to 64-bit. On Apple's Developer site has posted an official reminder that starting January 1st, 2018 32-bit Mac apps will no longer be accepted.

32-bit app compatibility with macOS High Sierra 10.13.4

"App is not optimized for your Mac" Alert

Why Transition to 64-bit Technology Matters and How it Affects 32-bit Apps

While developers optimize their apps for 64-bit compatibility, Apple is notifying customers when they are using an app based on 32-bit technology. This is done via a one-time "App is not optimized for your Mac" alert that appears when you launch a 32-bit app. Below you will find more information about the alert and what the 64-bit transition means for you.

  • Q: Why am I seeing this "App is not optimized for your Mac" alert? A: Starting with macOS High Sierra 10.13.4, apps that have not been updated to use 64-bit processes produce a one-time alert when opened. This gives users advance notice that they are running 32-bit software, which will not be compatible with macOS in the future.
  • Q: Can I keep using my 32-bit apps? A: Yes, you may continue to use 32-bit apps with your Mac today. Using 32-bit software has no adverse effects on your data or your computer.
  • Q: How do I check if an app is 32-bit or 64-bit? A: On Apple menu > Choose About This Mac > Click the System Report button > Software > Applications. When you select an individual application, you will see a field titled "64-bit (Intel)".
    • 32-bit app compatibility with macOS High Sierra 10.13.4

    "App is not optimized for your Mac" Alert

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What To Do With "App is not optimized for your Mac" Alert

By purging outdated 32-bit apps from macOS, Apple hopes that this alert will help users and developers to raise a concern about the modern design of Mac apps. According to Apple: "To ensure that the apps you purchase are as advanced as the Mac you run them on, all future Mac software will eventually be required to be 64-bit."

It's similar to the transition on the cleanup 32-bit apps with iOS 11. Of course, making the shift is a bit messier on the desktop. For one thing, macOS has been around a lot longer than iOS. For another, while Apple does have a MacOS App Store, plenty of desktop apps are still downloaded from other channels.

You can skip this "App is not optimized for your Mac" alert by clicking the System Report button. For those 32-bit apps that haven't updated yet, Apple recommends bugging the developers directly.



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