How to get older apps for iPhone that can't run iOS 16

"If you have an older iPhone that still runs like a champ, but can't run iOS 16, all is not lost. Here's how to get an older version you want."

There is still hope if you have an older iPhone that still functions flawlessly but can't run iOS 16. Here's how to obtain an earlier version of the desired app that is compatible with your iPhone.

Older versions of the app can still be downloaded if your iPhone cannot run iOS 16. On devices older than the iPhone 8, as well as the original iPhone SE, these instructions may or may not function differently depending on the operating system.

Here is a simple how-to with step-by-step instructions.

How to get older apps, on an iPhone that can't run iOS 16

1. Open the App Store on your outdated smartphone and turn it on.
2. In the top-right portion of the screen, select the profile symbol. It should have a gray backdrop with either your profile photo or initials.
3. Click the button labeled "Purchased."
4. Toggle to My Purchases. All the apps that you've previously downloaded and installed with your Apple ID are listed for you to see. Be patient as older iPhones may take some time to load the complete list of your apps.
5. Search or scroll to find the desired app. Notable: Apps that have been removed from the app store, either by the developer or by Apple's purge of out-of-date apps, cannot be found there.
6. There will be an iCloud symbol next to each previously downloaded app that isn't on this device. To install the app on your device, tap this iCloud icon.
7. "Download an older version of this app?" will appear if the most recent version of the app is incompatible with your old iPhone. Click "Download."

Apple does allow you to download older software versions, despite the fact that it is hidden.

Although the functionality may be constrained due to the outdated software, at least you'll be able to use it on an earlier iPhone. Additionally, you won't have the option to select the software version you desire. The most recent version of the program that works with your operating system will be the only one you may use.

It is still possible to obtain an app if you require one but have never downloaded it before and your old iPhone is incompatible. But you'll need a device with a more recent operating system.

How to download new apps on your older iPhone

1. Using the same Apple ID, buy and download the app on your more recent device.
2. Open the App Store on your old iPhone once the new app has been downloaded.
3. In the top-right portion of the screen, select the profile symbol. It should have a gray backdrop with either your profile photo or initials.
4. Click the button labeled "Purchased."
5. Toggle to My Purchases. This list has to include the most recent app download.
6. On your old iPhone, download a suitable version of the app.

There is nothing you can do if there was never a version that functions on your earlier iPhone. On your more recent device, at least, you can still utilize that app!

source: appleinsider.com/inside/iphone/tips/how-to-get-older-apps-for-iphone-that-cant-run-ios-16