If you see the message “*app is not optimized for your Mac and needs to be updated,” it means the application is using older 32-bit technology that may not be supported on newer versions of macOS.


This guide explains what this message means and how to check whether an application is 32-bit or 64-bit on your system.


How to Check if an App is 32-bit or 64-bit


You can, of course, continue using your 32-bit applications with your Mac today. Using 32-bit software has no nefarious effect on your data, your computer or your external devices.

If you want to check whether an application is 32 or 64-bit you can do so as follows:

  1. From the Apple menu, choose About This Mac.

  2. Click the System Report button.

  3. Scroll down to Software in the sidebar.
  4. Select Applications.

  5. When you select an individual application, you will see a field titled 64-bit (Intel).
    Yes indicates 64-bit; No indicates 32-bit.
  6. If you're using macOS Mojave, select Legacy Software in the sidebar to see all applications that have not been updated to use 64-bit processes.