Thursday, 24 April 2025
27.6 C
Singapore
31 C
Thailand
19 C
Indonesia
29.1 C
Philippines

WhatsApp to drop support for older iOS versions in May 2025

WhatsApp will discontinue support for iPhones running older iOS versions on 5 May 2025. To continue using the app, update to iOS 15.1 or newer.

WhatsApp has announced that starting 5 May 2025, it will no longer support older iPhones running outdated iOS versions. The popular messaging platform will only be compatible with devices operating on iOS 15.1 or later.

Currently, WhatsApp supports iPhones using iOS 12 or newer, giving users a five-month window to update their devices. While most iPhones can easily stay updated, some older models might face compatibility issues.

Update confirmed through official channels

WhatsApp’s Help Centre has outlined the changes and confirmed the updated compatibility requirements. Additionally, WABetaInfo, a fan site dedicated to WhatsApp updates, noted that testers encountered notifications in a beta version. These messages informed users that older iOS versions would no longer be supported and provided instructions for updating the firmware.

This periodic update to WhatsApp’s compatibility is not unusual. Previous changes also adjusted the app’s requirements, including the shift to supporting iOS 12.1 or later in earlier updates.

iOS versions and the impact on users

Apple’s latest operating system is iOS 18, released in 2023. Its newest features include enhanced Apple Intelligence with iOS 18.1 and upcoming updates in iOS 18.2, such as notifications about estimated charging times.

iOS 15 was first launched in 2021, meaning it will be nearly four years old when the WhatsApp update takes effect. For reference, iOS 12 was released in 2018, making it significantly older. With iOS 15 as the new minimum requirement, users with devices running these older systems will need to upgrade their phones or miss out on WhatsApp support.

While many iPhone users keep their devices updated, some older models cannot install the latest software. If you’re using an older iPhone, this might be the time to check if your phone can support iOS 15.1 or consider upgrading your device to ensure uninterrupted access to WhatsApp.

What to do if your phone is affected

If your iPhone is running an unsupported version, WhatsApp will notify you with instructions on how to update your operating system. However, for models unable to run iOS 15.1, upgrading to a newer device may be the only solution.

This change highlights WhatsApp’s ongoing efforts to improve functionality and security, which often require phasing out support for older platforms. By focusing on newer operating systems, WhatsApp ensures users can access the app’s latest features without performance issues.

Hot this week

OpenAI’s Stargate project eyes global expansion after US launch

OpenAI’s US$500B Stargate project, which aims to build AI data centres across the US, may expand to the UK and Europe after it launches.

Qualcomm unveils new Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 with high-end features for less

Qualcomm quietly unveils the Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 with high-end features and strong performance for next-gen smartphones at a lower price.

Enterprises accelerate adoption of AI agents despite concerns over data privacy and fairness

Cloudera survey finds 96% of global enterprises plan to expand AI agents, with Singapore leading adoption but facing fairness concerns.

xAI’s Grok chatbot now lets you ask questions about what you see

Grok’s new Vision tool lets iPhone users ask questions about what they see. Updates also add real-time voice search and memory features.

Apple shares major environmental progress ahead of Earth Day

Apple has cut over 60% of emissions since 2015 and is making big progress toward its 2030 carbon-neutral goal ahead of Earth Day.

POCO launches entry-level C71 smartphone in Singapore with premium features

POCO launches the budget-friendly C71 smartphone in Singapore, offering premium design, enhanced cameras, and smooth performance at S$109.

NVIDIA uses AI to address climate, wildlife and disaster risks

NVIDIA’s AI tools support climate action, wildlife monitoring, and disaster risk mitigation, with uses spanning sea, land, sky and space.

Netflix raises subscription prices in Singapore again

Netflix again raises subscription prices in Singapore, with new rates for all plans and extra member slots.

GameMax unveils Blade Concept ATX case with bold design and powerful features

GameMax launches the Blade Concept ATX case, which features a striking blade design, RGB lighting, and support for high-end liquid-cooled PC builds.

Related Articles

Popular Categories