Meta, the parent company of WhatsApp, has stopped supporting older versions of iPhones. The transition began on June 1, after being delayed from its original date of May 5. The delay gave individuals more time to get ready for the update.
WhatsApp Stops Support for Older iPhones Starting June 1
Which iPhones Are Affected?
WhatsApp currently requires iOS 15.1 or higher to run. This means that three of the older models won’t be able to make use of the app anymore. They include:
- iPhone 5s
- iPhone 6
- iPhone 6 Plus
These phones no longer support the latest iOS updates. Due to this, they cannot handle WhatsApp’s new requirements. If you own one of these models, you’ll need to get a newer iPhone if you wish to continue using WhatsApp.
What You Can Do
If your iPhone is running iOS 15.1 or later, you just need to update it. To check the version of iOS you have, go to: Settings > General > Software Update.
If you have an update, install it to allow WhatsApp to still work. This is the simplest way to stay in contact.
For unsupported device users, all one can do is upgrade to a newer phone. WhatsApp also provides a warning when support terminates so users can make preparations.
Why Support Is Ending
As time passes, devices cannot run newer apps smoothly and securely. Developers like Meta need to focus on newer technology. This helps them improve features, speed, and security for the majority of users.
Disabling older devices is a normal part of app development. It allows for better performance and fewer bugs for most users. But it can be frustrating for users who have not yet moved on to new phones.
What Do You Think?
So, do you think Meta did the right thing? Should older phones be supported for longer? Let us know in the comments what you think.
