If you recently updated iWork apps on your Mac, you might not have completed the process. The transition to universal apps compatible across macOS, iPadOS, and iOS requires a fresh installation from the Mac App Store. This is due to a change in bundle identifiers, preventing a straightforward update pathway for existing users.

This change means your older iWork apps (version 14.5) won't automatically upgrade. You'll need to update to version 14.5 first, which will then prompt you to download the new, universal versions (like Pages 15.1). Afterwards, the old apps will run in parallel with the new ones. It is recommended to delete the older versions to free up storage.

Deleting the older versions can free up around 25GB of storage space. Users can still download the older versions through their purchase history if needed. Apple's move to universal apps simplifies the user experience across its ecosystem. This also means future updates will be available simultaneously on all platforms.

Apple's iWork suite, including Pages, Numbers, and Keynote, is a core part of its productivity software offerings. The shift to universal apps reflects a broader trend of cross-platform compatibility. It streamlines development and ensures a more consistent user experience across Apple devices. Further testing will determine if there are any missing features.