Meta-owned WhatsApp is reportedly set to discontinue support for older iPhone models from May 2025. This move signifies a significant transition for users of devices including the iPhone 5s, iPhone 6, and iPhone 6 Plus.
According to a report from WABetaInfo, the widely used instant messaging platform will cease to be compatible with iOS versions before 15.1.
This move will impact devices that cannot upgrade beyond iOS 12.5.7, which is the final software version accessible for these older iPhone models. Users of these models must either convert to a more recent device or consider alternative options, as their existing hardware will no longer be compatible with WhatsApp following the specified deadline.
WhatsApp has provided users with an ample five-month notice period, with the modifications scheduled to take effect on 5 May 2025. This preliminary notification is intended to afford affected users sufficient time to either upgrade their devices or migrate to alternative platforms, should it be deemed necessary.
This update presents no difficulties for the more recent iPhone models. Devices that are compatible with iOS 15.1 or subsequent versions will remain unaffected and may continue to operate the application without any disruption. Users can verify that their iPhones are operating on the most recent software version by proceeding to Settings > General > Software Update.
The decision exclusively affects iPhone users, while Android users remain unaffected. Users of Android devices may continue to utilize WhatsApp as they typically would, without any apprehension regarding compatibility issues associated with this update.
This update is consistent with WhatsApp’s initiatives to leverage the sophisticated technologies and enhanced APIs present in the latest versions of iOS. These enhancements enable the app to introduce new features, improve security, and enhance overall performance, capabilities that older operating systems cannot support effectively.
