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UAE: WhatsApp will stop working on these devices starting May 2025

The messaging app emphasised that this move is aimed at optimising its performance

Published: Mon 2 Dec 2024, 9:01 PM

Updated: Mon 2 Dec 2024, 10:03 PM

By
Web Desk

Starting May 5, 2025, WhatsApp will not support iPhones running iOS versions older than 15.1. This change means that users with older iPhone models, including the iPhone 5s, iPhone 6, and iPhone 6 Plus, will be unable to use the popular messaging app on their devices.

Currently, WhatsApp supports devices running Android 5.0 and newer, as well as iPhones running iOS 12 and later. However, as part of its ongoing efforts to align with the latest technological advancements, WhatsApp will be phasing out support for older operating systems.

Android users will not be affected by this update and can continue using WhatsApp as usual.

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Users with newer iPhone models — those that can update to iOS 15.1 or beyond—will continue to have access to the app, as long as they are running the latest available software updates.

WhatsApp emphasised that this move is aimed at optimising the app’s performance, ensuring it remains compatible with the newest features and innovations in mobile technology.

WhatsApp's official website explains that discontinuing support for older devices allows the platform to focus on maintaining compatibility with modern systems, so it can "support newer ones and keep up with the latest advances in technology".

What happens if your operating system is no longer supported

If you're using an affected device, you'll need to either upgrade to a newer iPhone or update to the latest iOS version (if possible) to continue using WhatsApp after the May 2025 deadline.

WhatsApp has stated on its website, “Before we stop supporting your operating system, you'll be notified in WhatsApp and reminded several times to upgrade.”

For those with newer iPhone models, even if you're running an iOS version earlier than 15.1, you’ll still be able to update to the latest iOS release and continue using WhatsApp once the change takes effect. To update, simply go to Settings > General > Software Update on your iPhone.

Devices compatible with WhatsApp

Technology, including devices and software, evolves quickly, so it's no wonder that WhatsApp regularly reviews and updates the operating systems it supports

On its website, WhatsApp says, "Every year we look at which devices and software are the oldest and have the fewest users. These devices also might not have the latest security updates, or might lack the functionality required to run WhatsApp."

WhatsApp is compatible with many Android devices, including those running Android 5.0 and newer versions, as well as Android phones that can receive SMS messages or calls. It also works on a wide range of iOS devices, including iPhones running iOS 12 or newer, and those capable of receiving SMS messages or calls.

For the best WhatsApp experience on iOS, iPhone users are recommended to use the latest available version of iOS. Additionally, users are advised against using jailbroken or unlocked devices, as the messaging system does not support modified versions of the iPhone operating system.

elizabeth@khaleejtimes.com

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