WhatsApp to drop support for older iOS versions and iPhone models starting May 2025

Starting May 5, 2025, WhatsApp will drop support for versions older than iOS 15.1. The update will affect users with iPhone 5s, iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus. Users with newer iPhone models will still be able to access the app as long as they are on the latest available iOS version.

WhatsApp balances wide iOS support with the need to evolve the app

For years, WhatsApp has worked to support a large number of iOS versions. This ensures that users can continue to use the service offered by the app. This has also allowed WhatsApp to reach a broad audience, since the app supports several iPhone models and iOS versions within reasonable limits. he decision to maintain compatibility with older operating systems allows WhatsApp to offer the latest features to as many users as possible. However, WhatsApp will drop support for certain older iOS versions to offer better services to all users.

WhatsApp notifies users on older iOS versions about upcoming support ending and iOS 15.1 requirement

With a recent notification, WhatsApp has informed users on older versions of iOS that their devices will no longer be supported next year. This update notifies users with a device that runs an iOS version earlier than 15.1 that they will no longer be able to use the app in the future. This also applies to previous beta builds available on TestFlight. 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. This will give them time to update their devices or consider alternatives if their hardware does not support newer iOS versions.

WhatsApp relies on newer iOS APIs to improve performance and unlock new features

Newer versions of iOS offer updated APIs and improved technologies that WhatsApp relies on to implement new features. Dropping support for older versions lets WhatsApp make the app run more smoothly and introduce new features that wouldn't work on outdated operating systems. For example, certain enhancements available in newer iOS releases require APIs that were only introduced in iOS 15 and later. In addition, WhatsApp can migrate the codebase to use the latest APIs by discontinuing support for outdated operating systems. This update will eliminate the need to rely on deprecated code for backward compatibility in certain cases.

WhatsApp prioritizes most users by gradually moving away from older iOS versions

WhatsApp has likely closely monitored the number of users still running older versions of iOS. Data may indicate that a small portion of users relies on these outdated systems. WhatsApp can ensure that it provides a better 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.

Older iPhone models lose WhatsApp support while most users can update normally

This change will primarily affect iPhone 5s, iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus users, as the last iOS update available for these device models is iOS 12.5.7. These devices were released over 10 years ago, so the number of users still running WhatsApp on these models might be minimal. For users with newer iPhone models, those running an iOS version below 15.1 will still be able to update to the latest iOS release. As a result, they can easily use WhatsApp even after the change takes effect. You can update your device by opening iPhone Settings > General > Software Update. It's important to note that this decision only impacts some iPhone users, as Android users will not be affected by this update and can continue using WhatsApp as they normally would.

WhatsApp sets iOS 15.1 as the minimum requirement starting May 2025

Starting May 5, 2025, WhatsApp will no longer support versions prior to iOS 15.1. This change applies to both the standard WhatsApp app and WhatsApp Business, as both apps share the same underlying code and system requirements. If you're currently using an older iOS version, it's recommended that you update your device to continue using the app or switch to a compatible iPhone that supports newer iOS versions.

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