Opinions sought on date of app updates and how this affects apps

It does matter when apps were last updated. 2013 isn't as bad as, say, 2011, and it will probably still work, but I have seen older apps which had trouble on newer iOS versions. I would look into other alternatives if at all possible, or at least stick with the free version. Unfortunately I don't have experience with diabetes apps myself, so can't suggest specific ones for you to look into.

Greg,

I know this probably isn't the answer you're wanting, but...it all depends.

Generally, I won't download or pay money for something that hasn't been updated in over a year. At this time of year, with a new OS version on the horizon, I tend to judge an app by whether it has received support for the current-generation OS. An active Twitter account/support e-mail address and the availability of other accessible alternatives also both play a part in that decision.

In your situation, with no other accessible alternatives easily identified, I think a case could be made for purchasing the app if it does what you need it to do. In the end, if you can justify it to yourself and it meets your needs, that's all that matters.

IF it does what you need it to do and it works, then don’t worry about the update.

A lot of people are so concerned about the app not being updated they lose site of what updates really are. Updates are meant to fix issues but if there are no issues, why is an update required? Then I’ve also seen updates that broke perfectly working apps.

If you’re really concerned about future compatibility, check with the developer before you update the OS on your device.

HTH and good luck.

Greg et al:

First, let's step back and think a bit. No one can know/guarantee the future. Even if an app is accessible today, there's no guarantee that a future version will still be accessible or even compatible with a previous version. You are aware of this else you wouldn't be asking the question. But just because an app has been recently updated or the developer(s) has/have a history of keeping the app up-to-date, there's no guarantee that such activity will continue. Hence, worrying about the question, while understandable, is, in my view, an exercise in futility.

I say: if the app works and is accessible, buy it and use it.

the app I use is GlucoseRecorder. Among its options is one to export the database to a file. If you're truly worried about app database database compatability, you can just export the database and if the app developers don't keep up with iOS versions or a particular iOS version ruins the app's accessibility or whatever, at least you have the exported database to reenter the data in the new app you would presumably be using. All you are out is a bit of tedium and effort.

Mike Freeman, President, Diabetes Action Network, National Federation of the Blind

Hello,

Sorry for getting side tracked but since we are talking about diabetes…

I need to start checking my glucose level since I am at risk of diabetes. What glucosmeter do you folks use? I was looking at the talking Prodigy. Is there something easier to use?

Thanks for your help.