As part of its continuous effort to enhance user security amid increasing cyber threats, WhatsApp has revealed it will end support for iPhones with outdated iOS versions. This decision, effective from May 5, 2025, aims to protect user data and ensure the app stays secure in the face of evolving technology.

Older devices that no longer receive critical security updates become more vulnerable to cyber-attacks and other threats. By pushing users to upgrade their devices, WhatsApp intends to uphold user privacy, maintain data protection standards, and ensure access to its latest features and improvements.

Which iPhone Models Will Be Affected?

From May 5, 2025, WhatsApp will require iPhones to run at least iOS 15.1. Any devices still running older versions of iOS will no longer be compatible with the app. The specific models impacted by this change include:

• iPhone 5s

• iPhone 6

• iPhone 6 Plus

These iPhones have been officially classified as “obsolete” by Apple, meaning they are no longer eligible for repairs or replacement parts.

Impact on WhatsApp Business Users

This update will also affect users of WhatsApp Business, which is designed for small businesses. If you’re using an older iPhone, you will need to upgrade to a newer model to continue utilizing the app’s business features.

WhatsApp’s Device Support Policy Update

WhatsApp elaborated on its decision in an updated FAQ:

“Devices and software frequently change, so we routinely evaluate the operating systems we support. Each year, we review which devices and software are the oldest and have the smallest number of users. These devices may not have the latest security updates and could lack the necessary functionality to run WhatsApp.”

What Steps Should Users Take?

If you want uninterrupted access to WhatsApp, it’s crucial to upgrade to a newer iPhone model. Currently, the iPhone 8 and iPhone X are the oldest devices that will still support the app. However, both of these models stopped receiving major iOS updates with the release of iOS 16, so they may be next on the list for support discontinuation in the future.

Why Upgrading Matters

WhatsApp’s decision to stop supporting outdated iOS versions is part of a broader effort to improve app performance and deliver new features that may not be compatible with older hardware. Recent updates to WhatsApp have included:

• Enhanced privacy controls for chats

• Messages that disappear after a set time

• Options for locking chats

• Features that prevent users from copying messages and media

These updates aim to provide users with more robust security and privacy, ensuring that their data remains safe. By discontinuing support for older devices, WhatsApp can continue to optimize its app and introduce new features that work seamlessly with modern hardware.

This move highlights the significance of keeping both your hardware and software up-to-date in order to enjoy the latest features and maintain better security. If you’re using one of the affected iPhone models, it’s time to consider upgrading to avoid disruption of service and to continue enjoying the latest WhatsApp enhancements.