WhatsApp Drops Support for Older iPhones and Android Devices
WhatsApp’s latest move affects millions of users worldwide. The messaging app has stopped working on older iPhones and Android devices. This change is part of the app’s regular cleanup of supported platforms. If you’re using an old smartphone, it’s time to upgrade.
The affected devices include iPhones that can’t run iOS 15.1 or later. This means iPhone 5s, iPhone 6, and 6 Plus users are out of luck. These models are limited to iOS 12.5.7, which is no longer supported by WhatsApp.
Android users aren’t immune either. Devices that can’t run Android 5.0 or later are also no longer supported. This change likely affects very few devices, as most Android users have upgraded to newer versions.
Why the Change?
Meta, the company behind WhatsApp, regularly reviews its supported platforms. This process helps ensure the app runs smoothly and securely on the latest devices. Older devices often lack the necessary security updates and features, making them vulnerable to attacks.
In this case, the affected iPhones date back to 2013 and 2014. It’s likely many users have already upgraded to newer devices. However, with over 3 billion users, WhatsApp likely still has some users with older smartphones.
If you’re using an affected device, it’s time to consider an upgrade. You can check your device’s compatibility and update your operating system if possible. For iPhone 6s, 6s Plus, and original iPhone SE users, updating to iOS 15.8.4 should resolve the issue.
The change may seem sudden, but WhatsApp had announced its plans to drop support for these devices. The company even gave users a three-week extension, which has now ended. If you’re affected, don’t panic – it’s just a sign that it’s time to upgrade to a newer, more secure device.