WhatsApp is set to end support for several older iPhone models in the upcoming months, and the messaging platform owned by Meta has now prevented beta testers from installing the most recent update on these devices. When the official cutoff arrives in May, users must ensure their iPhone is operating on a recent version of iOS to keep receiving WhatsApp updates. By increasing the minimum iOS version requirement, WhatsApp can implement support for features that utilize the latest iOS capabilities and technologies.
WhatsApp Beta Requires iOS 15. 1 or Later With Latest Update
Individuals who have opted in to receive beta versions of WhatsApp on their iPhone need to verify that their device is running iOS 15. 1 or later, prior to installing WhatsApp beta for iOS 25. 1. 10. 72. This update was identified by WABetaInfo, a feature tracker known for accurately pinpointing new features and changes that are forthcoming on the chat platform.
Nevertheless, this marks the conclusion for beta testers using an iPhone 6, iPhone 6 Plus, and the iPhone 5s. These devices do not support an upgrade to iOS 15, indicating that the current WhatsApp beta version on their phones will remain functional for a few additional weeks before it becomes unusable. These users can transition to the stable app version, which will still receive updates until the first week of May.
The stable WhatsApp version for iOS will continue to support these older models up until May 5, after which users must either upgrade to iOS 15. 1 or switch to a newer smartphone if a software update is not accessible.
After WhatsApp ceases support for iOS 12, iOS 13, and iOS 14, the messaging platform will be capable of providing support for new features available on more recent iOS versions. The app’s listing on the App Store already indicates that the app necessitates iOS 15. 1 or later, while WhatsApp Business currently requires iOS 12 — this requirement will also be elevated to iOS 15. 1 in May.
