Solving the ITMS-90899 Error

When publishing your apps on the Apple App Store you might encounter a range of issues during the submission process. One such issue is the ITMS-90899 error, which relates to Apple silicon Mac support. This error message typically reads:

"ITMS-90899: Apple silicon Mac support issue - The app is not compatible with the provided minimum macOS version of 14.x. It can run on macOS 14.x or later. Please specify an LSMinimumSystemVersion value of 14.x or later in a new build, or select a compatible version in App Store Connect."

This error indicates that the app's current settings do not meet the compatibility requirements for running on Macs with a specific OS version, specifically the minimum macOS version supported. We'll take a look at two methods to resolve this issue: updating the LSMinimumSystemVersion in your app's Info.plist file or lowering the minimum deployment version for iOS.

Method 1: Update LSMinimumSystemVersion

To ensure your app is compatible with macOS 14.x or later you'll need to adjust the LSMinimumSystemVersion setting in your app's Info.plist file. Here's how:

1. Modify the Info.plist File:

   • Open your app's Info.plist and locate the LSMinimumSystemVersion key. If it doesn't exist, add it.
   • Set the value of this key to 14.4 or higher, indicating the minimum macOS version your app supports.

2. Test on macOS 14.4 or Later:

   • Ensure your app runs on macOS 14.x or later by testing it. You can use Xcode's simulator or an actual device(computer) for this!

3. Submit a New Build:

   • After making changes and testing, rebuild, archive, and submit your app to App Store Connect, ensuring you increment the build number. If the issue is fixed you won't get an email outlining the issue after your new build finishes processing.

Method 2: Lower the Minimum Deployment Version for iOS

Another approach to resolving the ITMS-90899 error involves adjusting the minimum deployment version for iOS in your project settings. This method can be particularly useful if your app is intended to support a wide range of devices, including older ones, or when macOS compatibility adjustments are not feasible. In most cases you'll need to lower the deployment target. I personally was able to fix my issue by lowering from iOS 17.2 to 17.0. Here's what you need to do:

1. Adjust iOS Deployment Target:

   • In Xcode, navigate to your project's target settings and locate the "iOS Deployment Target" option.
   • Lower the iOS deployment target to a version that aligns with your app's compatibility requirements and testing outcomes.

2. Comprehensive Testing:

   • After adjusting the deployment target, try compiling your app or running it on a simulator.

3. Resubmit Your App:

   • Once you're satisfied, submit a new build to App Store Connect - with an updated build number.

Wrapping Up

Encountering the ITMS-90899 error can be a setback, but it's often a straightforward fix. Whether you choose to update the LSMinimumSystemVersion to declare compatibility with newer macOS versions or adjust the iOS deployment target to broaden your app's compatibility, make sure to check everything is still working.

Remember, each app and scenario might require a different approach, so consider the specifics of your project when deciding on the best solution.