If you’re still using an iPhone 6, iPhone 6 Plus, or iPhone 5s, it’s time to prepare for a significant change. Starting May 5, 2025, WhatsApp will cease to function on these models, as the app will require iOS 15.1 or later to operate
These older iPhones are limited to iOS 12.5.7 and cannot be updated further, rendering them incompatible with WhatsApp’s upcoming requirements. This change affects both the standard WhatsApp and WhatsApp Business applications
WhatsApp’s decision is driven by the need to focus on newer technologies and features that demand more recent iOS versions . While this may inconvenience some users, it aligns with the app’s commitment to enhancing functionality and security
If you’re among those affected, consider upgrading to a newer iPhone model that supports iOS 15.1 or later. Before making the switch, ensure you back up your WhatsApp chats to iCloud. This will allow you to restore your chat and media history on your new device using WhatsApp’s Chat Transfer feature
As technology evolves, staying updated ensures continued access to essential apps and features. While saying goodbye to a trusty device can be bittersweet, embracing newer technology offers enhanced experiences and capabilities.
Whatsapp Rapid Technological Advancements
One of the unique features of WhatsApp, a messaging platform launched in 2009, is its extensive transformation from a simple text-messaging tool to a feature-rich, multipurpose communication service used by millions across the globe. The app was only meant to cater to basic text and voice messaging needs, but quickly coped with the growing demand of the users for multimedia communication.
In due course, WhatsApp adopted a number of additional features like photo and video sharing, voice messaging, and sending files of various kinds. This step was the springboard for the app’s in-depth pursuit of technology, eventually making it a powerhouse in multimedia communications.
The most outstanding innovation that has been made by WhatsApp is undoubtedly the incorporation of end-to-end encryption. This milestone was achieved in 2016. End-to-end encryption guarantees that messages are only visible to the sender and the receiver, making privacy and security a high priority.
The feature has not only been a result of the close cooperation with Open System Whispers but also significantly contributed to setting a new standard for safe communication in the messaging field. As people became more concerned about their privacy, WhatsApp also continued to improve the encryption functionalities by adding features such as endoscopy of their chats, which would prevent unauthorized access to the users’ chat history.
In the most recent times, WhatsApp has been building up its user experience, leveraging the potential of emerging technologies. By deploying AI-based tools, e.g., chatbots on WhatsApp Business and improved in-app search engines, WhatsApp has made communication services easy and fast for both businesses and people.
Moreover, the new WhatsApp features, namely, multi-device support, which permits users to log into their different devices simultaneously, have set a clear path for the app to be consistent with the needs of its users. With the advancements in technology, WhatsApp, hence, can shape up to develop and innovate further so that it keeps on being the most crucial of communication tools, while at the same time, ensuring that its users enjoy a more convenient, safe, and feature-filled experience.
