As PhoneArena pointed out, WhatsApp is planning to abandon iOS 15 and all the earlier releases of the Apple operating system. From the next year, this change will be rolled out for a number of older iPhone models such as the iPhone 6 Plus, iPhone 6, and iPhone 5S. Owners of such gadgets won’t be able to run WhatsApp since the application will not support outdated versions of iOS.
WhatsApp to End Support for Older iPhones and iOS Versions
The change has been made at a time when WhatsApp wants to ascertain to which extent its functionalities and security enhancements are compatible with relatively fresher hardware and software environments. In this way WhatsApp saves development time and resources that could be invested in enhancing newer models, and at the same time users of older iPhones will be able to have a better WhatsApp experience by updating to newer models.
This change will mainly affect persons who have not reinserted their iPhones for the last few years. Whenever new versions of the app need more complex software and hardware, WhatsApp is stopping its support at iOS 15, and that means that owners of devices running older versions of the OS will be left behind.
The only way that those who will be affected will be able to use the social media tool will be to download a newer iPhone or update to a compatible version of iOS. Recent updates that have lately been released for Apple’s devices and operating systems are in line with Apple’s strategy of obsolescence, where the firm tries to make users upgrade to newer models.
WhatsApp's decision to stop supporting older iPhone versions and iOS versions is not unique in the industry, as most companies phase out support for the outdated gadgets. Though this might be a disadvantage to some users, it is an indication of the rate at which technology is developing the need for further development of mobile apps.
WhatsApp to End Support for Older iPhones in 2025
WhatsApp will further be compatible with newer iPhone models, which are installed with the most recent iOS. But those users who have an iPhone that is outdated and is running on iOS versions below iOS 15.1 will receive the notification about the support that will be given up in 2025. This change is among those implemented for a long time by WhatsApp in a bid to de-bloat its app and enhance compatibility with current software and hardware.
Currently, WhatsApp needs a minimum iOS of 12; in other words, with the latest update, it only supports iOS 12 or higher versions. However, starting from May 5, 2025, this requirement will be changed to iOS 15.1 and later. This change will affect iPhone models such as the iPhone 6 Plus, iPhone 6, and iPhone 5S, which were released over ten years ago.
Those with devices that DO NOT meet these new requirements will have to upgrade either their iPhones or iOS versions if they wish to continue using WhatsApp. This update is to do with constant pressure to enhance app performance and security, to the extent that the users will enjoy the new app updates.
How to Prepare for WhatsApp’s iOS Support Changes
As of the 5th of May, 2025, WhatsApp will cease supporting iOS versions and would mandate that users upgrade their gadget’s iOS to the most recent one. To update, follow the path Settings > General > Software Update on any iPhone. This will enable it to run smoothly with the current updated version of WhatsApp, and it will be compatible.
If a device cannot be updated to a newer iOS, then the only option left is to upgrade the device. This will mean that they will still be able to use applications such as WhatsApp and others that require more advanced software. Those who require an upgrade will have an option to do it in the next five months from the announcement date.
If it is possible to do so on your device, you might download the new iOS 18.1 (or the most recent version that has been released) to keep using the service. This change suggests that there should always be adherence to using the updated software at your disposal to benefit from new features in your device as well as new security patches.
What to Do if You Can't Update iOS for WhatsApp
If you are unable to upgrade your iPhone for a newer iOS version, then you will only be left with no option but to own a new iPhone with the latest iOS. Starting from May 5th, 2025, it simply will not work on those devices, even if you are already a member of beta testing services, for instance, TestFlight.
Changing to a new device ensures that the user is able to use WhatsApp and other applications that need the latest iOS versions. If you’re using a more recent iPhone model, you also get improved performance, improved security, and new perks.
Although it may be irritating for some, get to another recent-generation iPhone to help in avoiding the fluency of your phone for several years. Running on the latest up-to-date iOS version is very important if the user wants to have the best use of the messenger as well as other related apps.
Why WhatsApp is Ending Support for Older iOS Versions
This probably results from newer APIs and other technologies available in the current iOS versions, and thus support for older versions is deemed unprofitable. They allow the addition and enhancement of options that were not possible on earlier versions of the same program. By insisting that the user must update software to use WhatsApp, the app will run smoothly and without arising security threats.
This change is intended to improve the quality of this solution for end users by making it run faster and offering access to new features. Over the course of time, customers’ demands grow as well as technology, so applications that are used every day, like WhatsApp, have to optimize the use for the best experience; that’s why this change is inevitable.
