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Apple brings 'last compatible version' apps to older iOS devices

When those who own older handsets try to download an app from Apple's App Store, they're given the opportunity to download an older version of the program.

Don Reisinger
CNET contributor Don Reisinger is a technology columnist who has covered everything from HDTVs to computers to Flowbee Haircut Systems. Besides his work with CNET, Don's work has been featured in a variety of other publications including PC World and a host of Ziff-Davis publications.
Don Reisinger
There's still some fight left in this iPhone 3G.
There's still some fight left in this iPhone 3G. Apple

Although Apple is keen on its customers moving to new devices every year or two, it's extending a helping hand to those who have decided to stay behind.

First discovered by a Reddit user on Monday, Apple is now giving folks who own older iOS devices the opportunity to download outdated app versions to ensure a particular program can run on their product. Previously, those who were running older iOS versions were asked to update to a new version to get their hands on a particular app.

According to an image posted on Reddit, when folks with older versions of iOS try to download a newer app now, they'll be shown a pop-up message suggesting that they download an older version of the app. The feature appears to analyze the iOS version they're running and ask them to download "the last compatible version."

Apple's compatibility offer comes as the company prepares to launch iOS 7 on Wednesday. That software version comes with hundreds of improvements, including a new design.

(Via Engadget)