As technology evolves, various applications must adapt to ensure they continue to function effectively. Recent information highlights that support will be discontinued for certain older iPhone models. This change will impact many users who rely on messaging services for communication.
A recent update indicates that WhatsApp will cease support for iOS 15 and earlier versions of Apple's operating system starting next year. This change will specifically affect older devices like the iPhone 6 Plus, iPhone 6, along with the iPhone 5S, while newer iPhones operating on the latest iOS versions will retain compatibility with the app.
According to a feature tracker, notifications are being sent to users of older iOS versions, alerting them to the impending end of support. Currently, the minimum required iOS version for WhatsApp is iOS 12, but this will change to iOS 15.1 effective May 5, 2025. This adjustment significantly impacts aging iPhone models introduced over ten years ago.
The message issued to users states that support for this iteration of iOS will conclude following May 5, 2025. It urges users to update to the latest iOS version to continue utilizing the app effectively. To perform the update, users can navigate to Settings, select General, and then tap on Software Update to access the latest version of iOS.
Users are afforded a five-month window to upgrade their devices to iOS 18.1, provided their devices are compatible. Alternatively, they may choose to acquire a new device that supports the updated firmware. Post-deadline, access to WhatsApp on unsupported devices will be restricted, even for users who manage to install a beta version through the TestFlight program.
This action is thought to be motivated by the introduction of new APIs and enhanced capabilities present in later iOS releases. Implementing these updates could allow WhatsApp to improve app performance and introduce features that were previously unfeasible on older operating systems.