Three iPhone models will no longer be supported by WhatsApp starting in 2025, so if you’re using one of those models, you’ll need to acquire a new phone in order to keep using the service. This is all the information you require.
Which iPhones Are Affected by the WhatsApp Update?
The iPhone 5s, iPhone 6, and iPhone 6s are the three models that are impacted. 2013 saw the release of the iPhone 5s, while 2014 saw the release of the other two. That is to say, they are all at least ten years old. The operating software that WhatsApp will soon need cannot be installed on some iPhones.
Are these phones still in use? The iPhone 6 was one of the most popular models, selling over 220 million units, making it maybe the third-biggest seller ever. That’s an excellent question.
What’s going on with the WhatsApp update?
According to WABetaInfo, WhatsApp recently notified customers using earlier versions of iOS that they would need to update their smartphones. According to the article, WhatsApp will need iOS 15.1 or later to function correctly in a future update, however it now supports iOS 12 and later. WhatsApp is offering impacted users a five-month notice period to assist them adjust to this change. This will give them enough time to update their smartphones, if at all possible, or look into other options if their hardware isn’t compatible with the latest iOS versions.
All iPhones from that point on will still be able to utilize WhatsApp because the iPhone 7 is compatible with iOS 15.1.
One of the primary reasons for this change is that newer versions of iOS include updated APIs and improved technologies that WhatsApp relies on to deliver new features,” WABetaInfo explains as to why it’s occurring. WhatsApp will be able to improve the app and add new features that aren’t achievable with out-of-date operating systems by discontinuing support for older versions.
When Will the WhatsApp Update Take Place?
According to WhatsApp, the change will take effect on May 5, 2025, and after then, it won’t support apps older than iOS 15.1.
According to MacRumors, “Users who plan to upgrade can use WhatsApp’s Chat Transfer feature to restore their entire chat and media history to a newer, supported device and backup their WhatsApp chats to iCloud.” The Help Center on WhatsApp provides instructions on how to accomplish this.
FAQ on WhatsApp’s Discontinuation of Support for Older iPhones (2025)
1. Which iPhone models will no longer be supported by WhatsApp starting in 2025?
The iPhone 5s, iPhone 6, and iPhone 6s will no longer support WhatsApp starting on May 5, 2025.
2. Why are these iPhone models being phased out?
These models cannot support the latest iOS versions required by WhatsApp. The app will need iOS 15.1 or later, which these older phones cannot upgrade to.
3. Are these phones still in use by many people?
Yes, especially the iPhone 6, which was one of Apple’s best-selling phones, with over 220 million units sold. Despite being over ten years old, these models are still in use by some people.
4. What is the issue with the WhatsApp update?
WhatsApp has announced that it will no longer support devices running iOS versions older than 15.1, starting in May 2025. This change is due to newer iOS updates offering updated APIs and improved technologies that WhatsApp needs to implement new features and security.
5. What is the timeline for the change?
WhatsApp will discontinue support for these older models on May 5, 2025. After that, users with unsupported devices will no longer be able to use WhatsApp.
6. What should affected users do?
Users of iPhone 5s, iPhone 6, and iPhone 6s will need to upgrade to a newer iPhone model to continue using WhatsApp. They have until May 2025 to make this change.
7. Can I transfer my WhatsApp data to a new device?
Yes, WhatsApp provides a Chat Transfer feature that allows users to move their chat and media history to a newer device. Make sure to back up your chats to iCloud before upgrading.
8. How long do I have to upgrade my phone?
Affected users will have a five-month notice period, with the change taking place on May 5, 2025. This allows time to either upgrade to a new device or explore other messaging options if upgrading is not possible.
9. Will any iPhone models still be able to use WhatsApp after May 2025?
Yes, the iPhone 7 and later models will continue to support WhatsApp since they are compatible with iOS 15.1 and newer versions.
10. Why is WhatsApp making this change?
The change allows WhatsApp to enhance its app by utilizing newer technologies and APIs available in the latest versions of iOS. This will improve functionality and allow for the addition of new features.
