Can’t Install EA app on Windows 7 – Error INST-21-25006

Hello,

I understand that Windows 7 and Windows 8 are no longer officially supported. However, I would like to suggest a possible compromise.

Would it be possible to make the last EA App version that supported these operating systems available as an offline-only launcher? In this mode, the app could run without internet connectivity and simply allow users to launch already installed single-player games like Sims. Online services such as updates, the store, multiplayer features, and account services could remain disabled.

This approach could preserve access to previously purchased games for users on older systems while avoiding security risks or maintenance costs related to online services.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

I had the same thing happen to me this morning! It was fine until I went out of the game and tried to go back, and the Launcher wouldn't load correctly. After that, the EA app disappeared.

As of December 22, 2025, the EA app is no longer supported on Windows 7 or Windows 8.

We first shared this update in September 2025 and contacted affected players in advance to ensure plenty of notice before support ended.

What this means:

• The EA app will no longer receive updates or support on Windows 7 or 8
• Players may experience issues launching or using the app on these systems
• To continue playing and accessing EA services, you’ll need to upgrade to a supported version of Windows (Windows 10 or newer)

This change allows us to focus on improving performance, security, and overall experience on supported platforms, in line with broader industry standards.

If you’re still using Windows 7 or 8, we recommend upgrading your system to ensure continued access to your games and services.

Thanks for your understanding.

I do generally agree with you, that access shouldn't be denied to your games, especially since you are a paying customer. The problem is that EA keeps a branch in their internal system, that supports older Windows OS's. They probably reached a point, in which the people that play on W7 are 1% or less and decided that the branch will no longer need be supported. Since they are dropping the branch, this means that your EA app will no longer receive general and security updates and EA does not want that, which is why they removed it and now force you to make the switch. From a legal stand point, your only option is to upgrade.

If you wish to explore an alternative, that doesn't involve your wallet, you can go Jack Sparrow. It is either this or you have to instal Linux. I acknowledge no option is really "acceptable", but this is what you have. 

I am having the same issue on Windows 7 . Ea app just stopped working . Have you been able to fix it?

I am in the exact same boat. This needs to be fixed in some way or another 👎

There is an issue you could help with: refunding games to Windows 7 and Windows 8 users who previously paid for and purchased them, but can no longer play them due to their operating systems. Because if they can’t play them, they are essentially meaningless. And the users are not at fault here at all. This situation is entirely caused by a mistake on EA’s part. This is a mistake because other digital game platforms do not do this. As I mentioned in my previous message, as a Windows 7 user, I am currently able to use those platforms without any problems.

I agree with you. They obviously didn't even give a thought to people that might still be using windows 7. Linux is free by the way. GMGamerGirl​ 

With all due respect to all the Linux lovers out there, I'm not down for installing an additional OS just to run the game.  If I could afford a whole new OS, then I could likely afford to get a new computer, which I currently can't.

I don't feel that a company with the reputation of EA should ever basically lock out a loyal customer from being able to access something they legitimately paid for.  It's just wrong...period.  They don't have to provide further support the version that allowed us to login/verify, but they should have certainly left it intact enough for us to still play.

Hello. Please see my response here.