Starting this Monday, May 5, thousands of users of older iPhones will face a significant hurdle: WhatsApp will cease functioning on devices that do not support iOS 15.1 or higher. The decision, announced by Meta, the company behind the app, reflects the need to maintain security and compatibility with new features. This change will directly impact popular models like the iPhone 6s and iPhone 7, leaving many users without access to one of the world’s most widely used messaging apps.
The measure is part of WhatsApp’s recurring policy of annually updating the minimum system requirements to keep pace with technological advancements. For many, the solution will be to update the operating system or purchase a new device, but not all affected devices can receive the latest iOS versions.
This change, for now, is exclusive to iPhones, as Android devices running versions from Android 5.0 remain compatible. iPhone users with older models, however, need to act quickly to avoid service disruption.
- Affected models include iAltitude 6s, 6s Plus, SE (1st generation), 7, and 7 Plus.
- Updating to iOS 15.1 is mandatory to maintain WhatsApp access.
- Meta justifies the decision based on security and support for new features.
- Users can check their iOS version in Settings > General > Software Update.
Minimum requirements raise barriers
Requiring iOS 15.1 as the minimum version for WhatsApp marks a milestone in Meta’s strategy to prioritize newer operating systems. Devices unable to update to this version, such as the iPhone 6s and iPhone 7, will lose all support. This decision directly affects users who keep older devices for financial reasons or personal preference.
For many, the inability to update the operating system means the device, though functional for calls, photos, and other apps, will lose a critical communication tool. Meta stated that older systems like iOS 13 and 14 cannot support the security layers needed to protect user data.
Checking the iOS version is straightforward, but not all users are familiar with the process. Those with models compatible with iOS 15.1 can avoid issues by updating their devices before the deadline.
Models affected by the change
Several iPhone models, launched between 2015 and 2016, are on the list of those losing WhatsApp support. These devices, which were highly popular in their time, cannot run systems beyond iOS 15, making them incompatible with the app’s new requirement.
- iPhone 6s: Launched in 2015, one of Apple’s best-selling models, but it stopped receiving updates at iOS 15.
- iPhone 6s Plus: The larger version of the 6s, facing the same system limitation.
- iPhone SE (1st generation): Compact and beloved by many, also limited to iOS 15.
- iPhone 7 and 7 Plus: Though more recent, launched in 2016, they do not support versions beyond iOS 15.
The list reflects the planned obsolescence of devices, a common practice in the tech industry that pushes users to upgrade to newer models over time.
- Modelos afetados incluem iPhone 6s, 6s Plus, SE (1ª geração), 7 e 7 Plus.
- A atualização para iOS 15.1 é obrigatória para manter o acesso ao WhatsApp.
- A Meta justifica a decisão com base em segurança e suporte a novos recursos.
- Usuários podem verificar a versão do iOS em Ajustes > Geral > Atualização de software.
Security as a priority
Meta emphasized that discontinuing support for older systems is necessary to protect users. Outdated operating systems, like iOS 13 and 14, no longer receive security patches from Apple, making them vulnerable to cyberattacks.
Additionally, WhatsApp has been incorporating advanced features, such as tools powered by Meta AI, which require greater processing power. These functionalities, according to the company, are incompatible with older hardware and software.
Affected users have received in-app notifications advising them to update their system or switch to a compatible device. WhatsApp’s Help Center also provides detailed information on minimum requirements.
Alternatives for impacted users
Those with an iPhone incompatible with iOS 15.1 face a dilemma: purchase a new device or seek alternatives to WhatsApp. Switching to another device requires transferring the account, a process that can be done via iCloud backups if configured correctly.
- iCloud backup: Allows saving chats and files before switching devices.
- Transfer to Android: Users can migrate data to Android devices using WhatsApp’s official tools.
- Alternative apps: Telegram and Signal are viable options, but they require contacts to use these platforms too.
- Buying a used iPhone: Models like the iPhone 8, which supports iOS 16, are affordable options in the second-hand market.
Choosing a new device, however, can be a financial burden for many, especially in markets where iPhone prices are high.
History of WhatsApp updates
Discontinuing support for older systems is not new for WhatsApp. Each year, the company evaluates which iOS and Android versions remain viable for compatibility. In 2024, for instance, the app stopped working on iPhones with iOS 12, affecting even older models like the iPhone 5s.
This policy reflects the rapid evolution of mobile technology. Operating systems released nearly a decade ago cannot meet the demands of modern apps, which integrate features like high-quality video calls and advanced encryption.
For Android, WhatsApp’s current requirement, Android 5.0, covers devices launched since 2014. This version remains common in simpler devices, particularly in emerging markets.
Impact on users of older iPhones
Thousands of people still use models like the iPhone 6s and 7, whether due to attachment, cost, or because the devices meet their basic needs. Losing WhatsApp, however, can hinder communication in professional and personal contexts, as the app is widely used for messaging, calls, and file sharing.
In countries where WhatsApp is the primary communication tool, such as India and Brazil, the change may cause significant inconvenience. Many users, especially those less tech-savvy, may not know how to update their system or transfer their accounts.
Meta recommends that users contact Apple or WhatsApp support for assistance. Online tutorials can also help with backups and updates.
New features demand more power
WhatsApp has been investing in features that require more robust systems. Integration with Meta AI, for example, enables functionalities like automated replies and in-app image editing. These features, however, are incompatible with older iPhones.
Additionally, the company has expanded options like communities, channels, and group calls with more participants. Each new tool increases the need for updated hardware and software, explaining the decision to drop support for systems like iOS 13 and 14.
Meta also plans to roll out privacy-focused updates, such as improvements to end-to-end encryption. These changes, according to the company, are only feasible on modern operating systems.
Disparity with Android
While iPhone users face restrictions, Android device owners are, for now, unaffected. Android 5.0, required by WhatsApp, is a version launched over a decade ago, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of devices, including budget models.
This difference reflects the fragmentation of the Android ecosystem, where manufacturers release updates at varying paces. Apple, on the other hand, maintains tighter control over iOS, enabling more frequent updates but also accelerating the obsolescence of older devices.
- Android 5.0: Compatible with WhatsApp since 2014, covering even simpler devices.
- iOS 15.1: Requires iPhones launched from 2017 for full updates.
- Fragmentation: Android has a wider variety of versions in use, while iOS is more uniform.
Preparing for the transition
iPhone users affected have until midnight on Sunday, May 4, to take action. Meta advises updating the system in advance, as the process may take time depending on the internet connection and device model.
Those unable to update iOS should prioritize backing up important chats. WhatsApp offers a detailed guide in its Help Center, with instructions for saving data to iCloud or transferring it to another device.
Tech repair shops can also assist with updates or data migration, though users should verify the service’s reliability.
Meta’s strategy for the future
Meta has indicated that WhatsApp’s system requirements will continue to evolve. With advancements in artificial intelligence and multimedia features, it’s likely that even newer iOS versions will be required in the coming years.
This strategy aligns WhatsApp with other Meta apps, like Instagram and Facebook, which also gradually phase out support for older systems. The company aims to keep its services competitive in a market dominated by rivals like Telegram and Signal.
For now, the support cutoff affects only a specific group of iPhones, but the trend suggests more models will be included in future requirement updates.