WhatsApp is one of the most popular messaging apps, and is used by many users around the world – including those using older devices. Most recently, WhatsApp is seen planning to end support for older iPhone devices, which use the iOS 15.1 operating system and below.
WhatsApp is expected to make this change in May 2025, and is expected to impact iPhone 5s, iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus users. WhatsApp has begun notifying users of affected devices regarding this change, and if users do not switch, they will not be able to access their WhatsApp accounts.
It is common for application developers to not support older versions of devices due to access to a number of APIs, in addition to using the modern infrastructure offered by newer operating system versions.