Older iPhones Will Soon Be Unable to Use WhatsApp
Owners of older iPhone models will soon need to upgrade their devices or operating system if they want to continue using WhatsApp. The popular messaging app is dropping support for iOS versions prior to iOS 15.1, which requires a mobile update beinbong May 2025.
“To take advantage of the latest iOS features and improve your experience, WhatsApp will no longer support iPhones running iOS 12.5.7 or earlier. The app will work reliably only on devices running iOS 15 or later.” said a statement from the company
This means that users with iPhones older than the iPhone 6 series will face a difficult choice. They will have to update to a newer operating system if possible or invest in a modern device to continue using WhatsApp. Other options include switching to alternative messaging platforms.
While upgrading to iOS 15 might be straightforward for users with compatible devices, others with phones that can’t support the newer operating system will need to weigh their options. They can either face the inconvenience of using a different messaging app or invest in a new device.
those who choose to stick with their current phones, they should know that WhatsApp is providing warned about the upcoming changes well in advance.
This news may be disappointing for users who are attached to their older iPhone models but value their connection through WhatsApp. However, this decision is in line with generally accepted industry practice, as app developers tend to focus their efforts on supporting the latest operating systems, allowing them to take full advantage of the newest technologies and security features.
“To minimize the impact of this transition, WhatsApp assured that it will provide affected users with a five-month notice period, until May 2025.” p>
Compatible iPhones
Here are the iPhone models that will continue to support WhatsApp after the May 2025 update :
* iPhone 6S and later
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* iPad models compatible with iOS 15 and later.
When will WhatsApp stop supporting older iPhones?
## WhatsApp Ditching Older iPhones: What You Need to Know
**Host:** Welcome back to Tech Talk. Today we’re discussing a major change coming to WhatsApp users with older iPhones. Joining us is tech expert Sarah Jones to break down the latest news. Sarah, thanks for being here!
**Sarah:** Thanks for having me!
**Host:** So, Sarah, can you tell our listeners what’s happening with WhatsApp and older iPhones?
**Sarah:** Absolutely. Starting May 5th, 2025, WhatsApp will no longer support iPhones running iOS versions older than 15.1. [1] This means users with iPhone 5s, iPhone 6, and iPhone 6 Plus, will need to upgrade their phone or operating system to keep using WhatsApp.
**Host:** That’s a pretty big deal! Are there a lot of people still using these older models?
**Sarah:** While exact numbers are difficult to pin down, there are still a significant number of users who haven’t upgraded. Many people hold onto their phones for as long as possible, and these models were very popular when they were released.
**Host:** So what options do those users have?
**Sarah:** They have a few choices. They can upgrade to a newer iPhone that supports iOS 15.1 or later. Or, they can try to update their current iPhone to the latest compatible iOS version if they haven’t already. Unfortunately, not all older models can be upgraded to iOS 15.1.
**Host:** What happens if they don’t upgrade by the deadline?
**Sarah:** Simply put, they’ll lose access to WhatsApp. They won’t be able to send or receive messages, make calls, or access any of the features they’re used to.
**Host:** That’s certainly something to consider! Any closing thoughts for our viewers, Sarah?
**Sarah:** Absolutely. For anyone with an older iPhone, now is the time to check your iOS version and see if you’re compatible. If you’re not, you have some time to decide your next steps and make sure you can stay connected with WhatsApp.
**Host:** Thanks for that insightful information, Sarah! For more tech tips and news, stay tuned to Tech Talk.