Highlights
- WhatsApp will stop supporting iOS versions earlier than 15.1.
- The change will be rolled out starting May 5, 2025.
- It will mainly affect older iPhone models like iPhone 5s, 6 and 6 Plus.
- WhatsApp is providing a five-month notice recommending users update their devices.
If you have an older iPhone, this update is for you. It appears WhatsApp is planning a big update that will change things for users using devices with older versions of iOS. Here’s what we know so far.
According to a recent update by trusted source WABetaInfo, WhatsApp will stop supporting iOS versions earlier than 15.1 starting May 5, 2025.
This change will impact users of older iPhone models, specifically the iPhone 5s, iPhone 6, and iPhone 6 Plus, as these devices are limited to iOS 12.5.7.
WhatsApp to drop support for older iOS versions and iPhone models starting May 2025!
WhatsApp will stop supporting versions older than iOS 15.1 affecting users with iPhone 5s, iPhone 6, and iPhone 6 Plus.https://t.co/rp77DJ7h27 pic.twitter.com/isliFb4mo8
— WABetaInfo (@WABetaInfo) December 2, 2024
Currently, WhatsApp supports iOS 12 and newer. However, those with older hardware that can’t support iOS 15.1 will lose access to the app.
The change will impact:
- iPhone 5s, iPhone 6, and iPhone 6 Plus
- Newer iPhones in iOS versions older than 15.1.
The report explains, “Currently, WhatsApp supports iOS 12 and later, but with a future update, the app will require iOS 15.1 or newer to work properly. To help affected users adapt to this change, WhatsApp is providing a five-month notice period, giving them ample time to update their devices if possible or consider alternatives if their hardware does not support newer iOS versions.”
Users with newer iPhone models running outdated iOS versions can update their devices to continue using WhatsApp.
As per the reports, WhatsApp explained that newer iOS versions provide updated APIs and technologies needed to enable new features. The platform can introduce advanced features that rely on newer APIs and migrate its codebase to the latest technologies after the update.
The WABetaInfo report, “Additionally, it’s easy to assume that WhatsApp has closely monitored the number of users still running older versions of iOS. Data may indicate that a significantly smaller portion of users relies on these outdated systems. WhatsApp can ensure that it provides a better overall experience to the majority of its users by focusing on newer iOS versions, while minimizing the impact on those who continue to use older devices.”
This update applies to both the standard WhatsApp app and WhatsApp Business, as both share the same system requirements.
However, Android users will not be affected by this change.
FAQs
Q1. When will WhatsApp stop supporting iOS versions older than 15.1?
Answer. According to a recent update by trusted source WABetaInfo, WhatsApp will stop supporting iOS versions earlier than 15.1 starting May 5, 2025.
Q2. Which iPhone models will be affected by WhatsApp’s update?
Answer. The change will impact users of older iPhone models, specifically the iPhone 5s, iPhone 6, and iPhone 6 Plus as these devices are limited to iOS 12.5.7.
Q3. What should users with newer iPhones do to continue using WhatsApp?
Answer. Users with newer iPhone models running outdated iOS versions can update their devices to continue using WhatsApp. To update your device, go to Settings > General > Software Update and install the latest iOS version.
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