Post iTunes, how do I upgrade apps, arrange iPhone desktop

Today I had to go to the Genius Bar with a problem with my iPhone 8's hotspot, this led to the iPhone being swapped out for a new phone.

I returned to the office and using iTunes 12.8.0.150 restored the phone from my backup. No problem there.

When I logged into the phone I noticed that all apps were dark and the word 'Waiting...' was under each. So I attempted, by tapping on each, to get them to download. Everything seemed fine, then they all froze and I believe that none of them are now downloading.

So I turned to a former method of updating, using the Apps section of iTunes. Then I got the rude surprise that Apple dropped this ability post iTunes 2.7. This is disappointing but moving on, what is the replacement?

How do I update and arrange iPhone apps without using my carrier? Because, right now, that is going no where. The desktop App Store seems to have no options for this. Been at Google and the web for an hour or so but not locating anything useful.

Thank you for any assistance.

PS Found that you can download an older version of iTunes but this does not seem like a good long term solution.

Posted on Oct 16, 2018 11:16 PM

Top-ranking reply

richard grant

Level 4

2,935 points

Posted on Oct 17, 2018 5:51 AM

Hi Garrett,

Apps are no longer managed by iTunes, but by the iOS device (iPhone or iPad) itself. This may take some getting used to for us veterans who were accustomed to doing things the old way, but personally speaking — after switching to the new method a couple of years ago, while I was using an iPad as my primary device — it's better and faster.

Here are some information resources:

How to move apps and create folders on your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch - Apple Support

And I especially recommend this: Turn on Automatic Downloads or App Updates - Apple Support

With automatic updating enabled, you never have to think about this again. Apps will update while your phone is locked down, in a wifi zone, and connected to a charger.

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