While iOS 9 will run on every device that can run iOS 8, developers will have an option to make their apps available only on newer devices. Specifically, they’ll be able to target the 64-bit A7 chip as a minimum requirement, 9to5 Mac reports. This chip was first used in the iPhone 5S in 2013.
The new policy cuts off a number of popular devices, including every iPod Touch model and the original iPad Mini, both of which are still sold on Apple’s website. While this is an issue owners of Android phones face more frequently (though not as much as they used to), this is the first time users have been able to use a new version of iOS but not every app available for it.
Of course, there are already plenty of apps — games particularly — that simply won’t run on older hardware. With no way to target specific hardware, developers have had to resort to putting warnings on their App Store listings and refunding buyers who didn’t realize that the app wouldn’t run properly on their device.
For some time now, developers have lamented the older A5 chip and its lack of power compared to newer chips. Now those developers will be able to target certain devices specifically without needing to worry about those who can’t run the app buying it.
When developers enable this new option, not only will those using older hardware not be able to buy or download the app, but they won’t even see it listed in the App Store.
This is certainly convenient for developers, and it’s even arguably better for consumers, but that isn’t going to stop some people from being unhappy about it.
