Will Your Favorite Apps Survive macOS Golden Gate?
If you're wondering how to see which Mac apps will stop working after macOS Golden Gate, you need to check for 64-bit compatibility and developer updates. Apple's new macOS Golden Gate (macOS 11) drops support for 32-bit apps entirely, meaning older software may not launch. This guide shows you exactly how to find and prepare those apps before you upgrade.
Why Some Apps Stop Working on macOS Golden Gate
Apple's macOS Golden Gate requires all apps to be 64-bit. 32-bit apps are no longer supported. This change improves performance, security, and stability. But it also means some older or unmaintained apps will break.
What is a 32-bit vs. 64-bit App?
- 32-bit apps can use less than 4GB of RAM. They are older and slower.
- 64-bit apps can use more memory and run faster. They are the modern standard.
If an app hasn't been updated to 64-bit by its developer, it will not run on macOS Golden Gate.
Step-by-Step: Check Which Mac Apps Will Stop Working
Follow these simple steps to find incompatible apps on your Mac right now.
Step 1: Open System Information
Click the Apple logo in the top-left corner. Select About This Mac. Then click System Report (or System Information on older macOS versions).
Step 2: Find Legacy Software
In the left sidebar, scroll down to Software and click Applications. Wait for the list to load. Then look at the 64-bit (Intel) column.
- Yes = App is 64-bit and should work fine.
- No = App is 32-bit and will stop working after upgrading to macOS Golden Gate.
Step 3: Take Action on Incompatible Apps
For any app marked No, you have three options:
- Update it: Check the Mac App Store or the developer's website for a 64-bit version.
- Replace it: Find a modern alternative that supports macOS Golden Gate.
- Keep the old macOS: If the app is critical and no update exists, consider not upgrading yet.
Use a Quick Terminal Command
You can also check using Terminal. Open Terminal (from Applications > Utilities) and paste this command:
system_profiler SPApplicationsDataType | grep -E "(Location:|64-Bit (Intel):)" | grep -B1 "No"
This lists all 32-bit apps on your system.
Common Apps That May Stop Working
Here are examples of apps that are often 32-bit and may break:
- Older versions of Adobe CS6 or earlier
- Some old games (like Diablo III early editions)
- Legacy utilities (like AppZapper or OnyX for older macOS)
- Some printer or scanner drivers
Always check with the developer for a 64-bit update before upgrading.
How to Prepare Before Upgrading to macOS Golden Gate
Before you install macOS Golden Gate:
- Back up your Mac using Time Machine or another backup method.
- List all 32-bit apps using the steps above.
- Update or replace those apps whenever possible.
- Test critical apps on a separate volume or virtual machine if you can.
What If You Already Upgraded?
If you upgraded and an app won't open, try:
- Checking the developer's website for a newer version.
- Using Rosetta 2 (if the app is Intel-based but 64-bit).
- Contacting the developer directly.
If no update exists, you may need to find a replacement app.
Knowing how to see which Mac apps will stop working after macOS Golden Gate saves you time and frustration. Check your apps today, update what you can, and replace what you must. This way, your upgrade will be smooth and your workflow uninterrupted.
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