WhatsApp Update: Phones & Apps Affected
- Users of older iPhone models, some dating back a decade, will lose access to WhatsApp beginning in May 2025, prompting some to consider upgrading their devices to maintain...
- The messaging platform announced late last year that it would discontinue support for older iPhones starting May 5, 2025.
- WhatsApp cites the introduction of new features requiring more advanced iOS technologies as the reason for the change.
WhatsApp to End Support for older iPhones, KaiOS Devices in 2025
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Users of older iPhone models, some dating back a decade, will lose access to WhatsApp beginning in May 2025, prompting some to consider upgrading their devices to maintain access to the popular messaging service.
The messaging platform announced late last year that it would discontinue support for older iPhones starting May 5, 2025. Specifically, this affects iPhone 5S, iPhone 6, and iPhone 6 Plus models, which apple has already ceased providing software updates for.
WhatsApp cites the introduction of new features requiring more advanced iOS technologies as the reason for the change. “Our goal is to continue to offer the best interaction and data protection possibilities,” the company stated.
Apple had previously declared the iPhone 6 Plus as “obsolete” in April 2024.The loss of WhatsApp support is a significant blow for users, as the iPhone 6 remains one of the company’s best-selling smartphones. While experts believe that the number of actively used devices is highly likely small, the impact could be more pronounced in developing nations and among older users.
Limited Time Remaining for iPhone 5S, 6, and 6 Plus Users
WhatsApp is providing a five-month advance notice. Users will receive an in-app message alerting them to the impending end of support. The options are straightforward: upgrade to a newer iPhone model or switch to an alternative communication platform.
The change affects not only individual users but also businesses. The business version of WhatsApp, which has seen increasing adoption, will also cease to function on these older devices. This may accelerate the transition to newer technologies for some businesses.
KaiOS Support Also Ending in 2025
iPhone users are not the only ones affected. WhatsApp also announced the end of support for KaiOS in 2025, an operating system used in basic mobile phones. This system is used on approximately 130 million devices in over 100 countries, including iconic models like the updated Nokia 8110.
Users in emerging markets, where affordable devices with WhatsApp access have been crucial for digital communication, will be especially impacted. More than 70 different KaiOS device models will be affected by the deactivation.
WhatsApp to End support for Older iPhones and KaiOS Devices in 2025: your Questions Answered
Are you an iPhone user, or do you use a basic phone with KaiOS? If so, you might soon be affected by changes to WhatsApp support. Let’s dive into what’s changing and what it means for you. This article, based on the provided facts, aims to be a complete guide, offering clear answers to your most pressing questions.
Why is WhatsApp Ending support for Older iPhones?
WhatsApp will discontinue support for certain older iPhone models starting May 5,2025. The main reason cited is the introduction of new features that require more advanced iOS technologies. Essentially, older iPhones lack the processing power and software compatibility to run the newest WhatsApp updates efficiently and securely.