Do you have an old iPhone? WhatsApp will stop working on it soon.
Support for your old iPhone is coming to an end.
Users of older iPhones have recently received a notification from WhatsApp informing them that the app will stop working unless they update their iOS operating system. The popular messaging service plans to discontinue support for any software prior to iOS 15.1 starting in May 2025.
Although iPhones are known for their durability, many people still use older models that may become unusable with the app. According to information from various sources, WhatsApp has begun sending alerts to those operating on iOS versions earlier than 15.1, indicating that they must "update to the latest version of iOS to continue using WhatsApp." If this applies to you, you will have approximately five months to manage the update before the app ceases to function on your device.
It's important to note that if you own an iPhone 5s, iPhone 6, or iPhone 6 Plus, or any earlier model, you will not be able to upgrade to iOS 18, meaning WhatsApp will not work on your device starting next May. Additionally, WhatsApp still does not have a dedicated app for iPad, which means that some iPad models, such as the first-generation iPad Air and the iPad mini 2 and 3, will also lose support as compatibility with versions prior to iOS 15.1 is phased out.
WhatsApp has been rolling out new features in its apps for iOS and Android over the past year, including the option to send photos in "original quality." The decision to end support for older iPhones may be related to the company's desire to introduce more advanced features that require a more recent operating system. This change would allow WhatsApp to focus its efforts on optimizing the app for the majority of its users who have more modern devices.
If you are considering purchasing a new iPhone or iPad, it may be a good time to start looking for the best deals available. Although Black Friday has already passed, it is still possible to find attractive discounts to ensure the continued use of WhatsApp in the future.