WhatsApp to Scrap Support for Three Old iPhones from May 5
WhatsApp users, listen up! You’ve got just hours left to check if your iPhone is about to be cut off. From Monday, May 5, WhatsApp will stop working on three older iPhone models, blocking them from sending or receiving messages.
Which iPhones Are Being Dropped?
- iPhone 5s
- iPhone 6
- iPhone 6 Plus
These models, some hitting the shelves as far back as 2013, cannot upgrade beyond iOS 12. WhatsApp will now only support iPhones running iOS 15.1 or newer. With Apple having already stopped major updates for these devices, WhatsApp is following to keep security tight and features fresh.
What Are Your Options?
If your iPhone is on the chopping block, WhatsApp urges you to upgrade. Here’s what you can do:
- Switch to a newer iPhone, like the iPhone 16e, starting at £599/$599.
- Consider Android alternatives such as the Google Pixel 9a or Samsung Galaxy A56.
While SMS and iMessage will still work on old devices, WhatsApp’s top features like group chats and media sharing will vanish. Major apps like Spotify and Instagram have already ditched support for iOS 12, leaving older phones increasingly isolated.
Why the Cut-Off?
WhatsApp says regular updates are essential to fend off security threats. Using outdated software makes phones vulnerable to hackers and means missing out on new features. If you want to stay in the loop and keep your chats secure, it’s time to move on from those aging iPhones.
Final warning: If you own an iPhone 5s, 6, or 6 Plus, the clock is ticking. Upgrade now to keep WhatsApp buzzing on your handset.
