WhatsApp Ends Support For These Older iPhones: iPhone 5s, iPhone 6, iPhone 6 Plus

WhatsApp has reportedly stopped supporting a number of iPhone models from the previous generation from June 1. According to WABetaInfo, WhatsApp has raised its minimum iOS requirement to version 15.1, and the messaging app is no longer available on devices that cannot install this software version.

With support for only new WhatsApp versions, parent company Meta can optimise the app, enhance security, and provide new features, which would be impossible with an antiquated OS.

WhatsApp gave iPhone users a five-month notice period to update their phones beginning Jan. 1, when it changed its support pages to identify iOS 15.1 as the minimum system requirements. 

The upgrade, which was planned for May 5 but was postponed for around a month, is part of a larger revision to WhatsApp’s system specifications. iOS 15.1 or later is now required for iPhone users to send and log in, and those using older iPhones running iOS 12.5.7 are instantly impacted.

WhatsApp is ending support for the following iPhone models since iOS 12.5.7 is the last version of iOS available for these devices:

• iPhone 5s

• iPhone 6

• iPhone 6 Plus

According to a 9To5 report, the following iPhones will have WhatsApp support as long as they run iOS 15.8.4: 

• iPhone 6s

• iPhone 6s Plus

• iPhone SE

• Go to your iPhone Settings.

• Tap General.

• Choose About.

• WhatsApp will not function if your device cannot update to iOS 15.1 or later. You will soon need to switch to a compatible device in order to continue using the app.

• In order to prevent losing WhatsApp chats, users with older iPhones should also back up their conversation history.