With the upcoming release of MacOS 10.14 Mojave in the fall, Apple has announced that it will be phasing out support for 32-bit apps. This is bad news for any photographer that depends on software that isn’t kept regularly updated by its developer.
During its annual WWDC announcement on Monday, Apple confirmed that it would not be supporting 32-bit apps past Mojave. Luckily, Apple is giving users ample time to educate themselves on what apps may not receive an update in time, and if you’re a photographer that uses apps that are older, or don’t receive regular updates, then it may be important to start looking for suitable alternatives that would suit your photography workflow.
After updating to Mojave, users will begin receiving a warning when opening a 32-bit app, which unless the developer updates it, it will not be supported in upcoming versions of MacOS. Apple used the same strategy to prepare users on iOS for the switch from 32-bit apps to 64-bit apps on mobile devices before iOS 11. Apple has said that they’ll be getting aggressive with 32-bit warnings in an effort to prepare users for the change.
In a blog post this week, MacRumors outlines how to check apps on your Mac that are still running 32-bit versions. In reviewing my applications, I found many apps that are still running 32-bit, and several that I regularly use within my photo workflow.
Some of the apps, like the Adobe Application Manager, users can expect will receive a 64-bit upgrade in good time. However, other applications made by smaller developers are a bit more suspect.
Knowledge is power and preparation is key, especially when juggling a professional photography business. Make sure that you’re prepared for any updates in the future and have suitable options in case an essential application doesn’t make the cut in time for the 32-bit deadline.
Lead image by Pixabay.com via Pexels.
Damn that FoCal one is going to hurt, hope they have plans to upgrade it. This is one of my biggest griefs w/ Apple, software is EOL'ed after 3 years because of these annual updates. If you buy software for Windows you could more than likely expect to use it for 10 years or more. Had to move Quickbooks over to windows just in the last year due to this.
The important thing is after Mojave 32 bit apps will loose support. This year look for other programs to replace the 32 bit programs you use. Do not panic Yet !
Sorry but we’ve had he internet a long time now. Ample time to learn how to spell ‘lose’.
"he internet"
My experience with Apple and upgrading the OS has been don't do it unless you are forced to - as I was in moving from Yosemite to Sierra in order to use the latest Creative Cloud. That upgrade was fraught with all sorts of issues and problems which took days to sort out. I had similar issues upgrading to Yosemite before... hardware fails (Wacom tablet for one), software issues, nothing but headaches.
The days of "it just works" are LONG gone... After my17" MacBook pro turned into a paperweight and Apple stopped making parts for it, I've decided that when my current machines die, I'll be looking at either a Hackintosh (with upgradable serviceable parts) or a proper Windows computer like a Microsoft Surface.
Two important things to remember:
1.) No need to panic for a while, as this won't be a thing until whatever comes after Mojave; and Mojave isn't even here yet.
2.) No one has to upgrade their OS if they don't want to. Do they want new Finder features, security, etc., or compatibility with old software (much of which just needs a little more time to update, at which time you will probably be able to update your OS without issue anyway).
The majority is from Adobe ;) one from Apple. Photo Mechanic and Focal.
I don't use Apple products and unless something miraculous as Devine intervention happens, that will never happen.
But I have to admit that I entirely see their point phasing 32bit software out. If a software manufacturer doesn't have 64 bit versions of their software, it is time to switch.