WhatsApp, a messaging app owned by Meta, will soon stop its service for older iPhone models starting next year.
As per the report of WABetaInfo, the messaging platform is ending its support for users with iOS versions older than 15.1, which means that users with iOS versions older than 15.1 will not be able to access the application, even if they try to use a previous beta version through TestFlight.
Currently, WhatsApp supports iOS 12 and later, but after the update, it will stop its services for the iPhone 5s, iPhone 6, and iPhone 6 Plus. These models can only run iOS 12.5.7, the most recent update available to them.
The update will take place by May 5, 2025. This update applies to both the standard WhatsApp app and WhatsApp Business. So, if you are an iPhone user with an older version of iOS, it is suggested to update your device or switch to a new iPhone model to continue enjoying WhatsApp services. The important thing to note is that Android users will not be affected by this update.
One of the reasons for this shift is that newer versions of iOS include updated APIs and improved technologies that WhatsApp uses to deliver new features. By ending its support for older versions, the messaging platform will be able to optimize the app and introduce new features, as per the report.
To update your device, you can follow these simple steps:
Go to Settings > General > Software Update.