WhatsApp phasing out support for older iPhones soon

WhatsApp, the widely-used messaging platform owned by Meta, has announced that it will stop supporting older versions of Apple’s iOS operating system starting May 5, 2025. This change will impact both the standard WhatsApp app and WhatsApp Business, requiring users to have iOS 15.1 or newer to continue using the service.

The company has reportedly informed affected users that devices running iOS versions earlier than 15.1 will no longer be compatible. This update is expected to affect older iPhone models, including the iPhone 5s, iPhone 6, and iPhone 6 Plus, which are not eligible to upgrade to iOS 15.1. Users with more recent devices running outdated iOS versions will need to update their software to maintain access.

Currently, WhatsApp supports iOS 12 and newer. However, the platform’s decision to increase the minimum requirement is driven by the need to utilize updated APIs and advanced features available only in modern operating systems. By focusing on newer versions, WhatsApp aims to enhance performance, security, and the overall user experience while accelerating the rollout of innovative features.

The five-month notice gives users ample time to upgrade their devices or switch to newer hardware if their current phone does not support iOS 15.1 or later. This shift aligns with WhatsApp’s broader strategy of prioritizing updates and streamlining compatibility.

In a related development, WhatsApp recently introduced a Voice Message Transcription feature. This tool allows users to generate text versions of voice messages within chats. The transcription process is designed to run entirely on-device, ensuring that neither the original audio nor the transcribed text is uploaded to WhatsApp’s servers. Users can activate or deactivate the feature via the Chats menu in app settings. To transcribe a voice message, they can long-press the message and select “transcribe.”

These updates highlight WhatsApp’s ongoing efforts to modernize its platform while maintaining privacy and security as top priorities. As the company continues to evolve, users are encouraged to keep their devices updated to access the latest features and improvements.