WhatsApp, the popular Meta-owned messaging platform, has announced that it will discontinue support for certain older iPhone models in the coming months. As part of this transition, WhatsApp has already started blocking beta testers from installing the latest version of the app on these aging devices.
The official deadline for the discontinuation is set for May 5, 2024. After this date, users will need to ensure their iPhone is running iOS 15.1 or later to continue receiving updates and accessing the latest features. This move will allow WhatsApp to leverage new iOS capabilities and enhanced security features introduced in the latest Apple software updates.
WhatsApp beta users who wish to install the latest testing version of the app must ensure their iPhone is running at least iOS 15.1. The latest beta update for iOS, version 25.1.10.72, is no longer available for iPhones running iOS 14 or earlier. This change was first reported by WABetaInfo, a reputable source known for tracking upcoming WhatsApp features and updates.
Users with an iPhone 6, iPhone 6 Plus, or iPhone 5s will be unable to install the latest WhatsApp beta as these models do not support iOS 15. This means that the existing WhatsApp beta version on these devices will expire in a few weeks. However, users can still continue using the stable version of the app until early May.
If your iPhone is currently running iOS 14 or an older version, follow these steps to update your software and continue using WhatsApp beta:
Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
Navigate to General > Software Update.
Tap Install Now to upgrade to the latest iOS version available for your device.
Once the update is complete, download and install the latest WhatsApp beta version.
However, if you are using an iPhone 6, iPhone 6 Plus, or iPhone 5s, you will not be able to upgrade to iOS 15, meaning WhatsApp beta will soon become inaccessible on these models.
While beta testing support is ending for older iPhones, the stable version of WhatsApp will continue to function on iOS 12, iOS 13, and iOS 14 until May 5, 2024. After this date:
Users will need to upgrade to iOS 15.1 or newer to continue receiving updates.
If an iOS update is unavailable, users must switch to a newer iPhone model to keep using WhatsApp.
WhatsApp’s App Store listing has already been updated to reflect the new system requirements, stating that WhatsApp now requires iOS 15.1 or later. Additionally, the WhatsApp Business app, which currently supports iOS 12, will also raise its minimum requirement to iOS 15.1 starting in May.
By phasing out support for iOS 12, iOS 13, and iOS 14, WhatsApp will be able to:
Introduce new features that leverage the latest iOS functionalities.
Enhance security protocols to protect user data.
Improve app performance by optimizing it for modern hardware and software.
Older iPhones that are not compatible with iOS 15.1 or later will eventually lose access to future WhatsApp updates, making it essential for users to upgrade their devices to continue enjoying seamless messaging and security updates.
The discontinuation of WhatsApp support for older iPhone models marks a necessary step in ensuring better security, enhanced performance, and access to the latest features. While this change may inconvenience users of older devices, it also highlights the importance of keeping software up to date for a seamless experience.
If your iPhone is still running on an unsupported iOS version, updating your device or switching to a newer model will be essential to continue using WhatsApp without interruptions. As WhatsApp evolves with new capabilities, users can expect improved functionality and security in future updates.