Listen to this Post
As technology evolves, so do the requirements of our favorite apps. One such app, WhatsApp, is preparing to phase out support for several older smartphones, a move that will affect many users across the globe. Starting June 1st, WhatsApp will no longer function on specific iPhone and Android devices that do not meet its updated software standards. This decision, part of WhatsApp’s regular update cycle, is aimed at maintaining performance, compatibility, and security across its massive global user base.
WhatsApp Drops Legacy Devices: Heres Whats Changing 🛑
In a recent update, WhatsApp announced that it would officially stop supporting devices running older operating systems. Originally set for May 5th, the update deadline was extended slightly and will now take effect on Sunday, June 1st. From this date forward, WhatsApp will only be supported on iPhones running iOS 15.1 or later and Android phones running version 5.1 or higher.
Devices Losing Support:
iPhone 5s
iPhone 6
iPhone 6 Plus
Possibly Affected but Still Safe (For Now):
iPhone 6s
iPhone 6s Plus
iPhone SE (1st Generation)
These three models support iOS 15.8.4, which means users who have updated to the latest compatible iOS version can continue using WhatsApp — at least for the time being.
Despite their age, many of these devices are still in use, often passed down to family members, used as backups, or favored by users who don’t need the latest technology. However, this change may still surprise a considerable number of WhatsApp’s 3 billion global users who might not follow tech news closely.
This move reinforces WhatsApp’s trend of phasing out outdated hardware to enhance app performance, bolster security, and encourage users to keep their devices up to date. While this might be frustrating for some, it’s also a reminder of how rapidly digital ecosystems are evolving.
What Undercode Say: 🧠📊
From an analytical perspective, this move by WhatsApp is a clear reflection of the tech industry’s shift toward supporting newer, more secure platforms. Here’s what stands out:
1. Security-Driven Strategy
The phasing out of older operating systems is not just about performance — it’s largely a security issue. Devices stuck on outdated OS versions are more vulnerable to exploits, bugs, and malware. WhatsApp, with its end-to-end encryption model, relies heavily on secure infrastructure, and older OS versions can become weak points.
2. User Experience Optimization
Legacy hardware struggles to keep up with app demands. By ending support, WhatsApp ensures a smoother and more reliable experience for users with newer phones. Reduced lag, fewer crashes, and a more cohesive UI/UX are the benefits that come with raising system requirements.
3. Pressure on Upgrades
Whether intentional or not, updates like these nudge users toward hardware upgrades. Many people might now consider replacing their aging iPhones, boosting Apple’s ecosystem indirectly. It also serves as a signal to developers and manufacturers that user bases are shifting to newer tech standards.
4. Sustainability vs. Accessibility
There’s an ongoing debate in the tech world between sustainable tech use and the push for constant upgrades. Cutting off access to apps forces users to discard perfectly functional devices. While necessary from a tech perspective, this adds to electronic waste and digital exclusion, particularly in low-income regions.
5. Impact on Global Userbase
Given WhatsApp’s global reach, this update will likely affect millions in countries where older smartphones are still commonplace. In regions like parts of Asia, South America, and Africa, the iPhone 6 and 6s series remain in circulation — often sold in secondary markets or used as family devices.
6. Tech Literacy Challenge
Some users — especially elderly individuals or those less familiar with tech — may not even realize that WhatsApp is no longer working due to system incompatibility. This places a greater need on family members or communities to provide digital assistance or device guidance.
7. Cycle of Obsolescence
While WhatsApp is only the messenger, this reflects a broader tech cycle — every few years, software begins dropping support for older hardware. The next update cutoff could target iPhones still clinging to iOS 15, suggesting a potential wave of obsolescence by 2026.
8. Competitor Watch
Apps like Telegram or Signal may benefit from users dropping off WhatsApp if they continue supporting older devices — though this is often short-lived as these platforms also move with similar system requirements eventually.
9. Timelines Matter
The delay from May 5 to June 1 offered a slight grace period for users. However, these soft transitions still catch many unaware. Better in-app notifications, public announcements, and even OS-level alerts could help bridge the information gap.
10. Advice to Users
Anyone with an iPhone 6s, 6s Plus, or SE (1st Gen) should check their iOS version immediately. Updating to iOS 15.8.4 ensures WhatsApp will continue functioning for now — but this is likely the last grace window.
Fact Checker Results 🔍✅
✅ Confirmed cutoff date: WhatsApp support ends for legacy devices on June 1, 2025.
✅ Minimum requirement: iOS 15.1+ and Android 5.1+.
✅ Impacted devices: iPhone 5s, 6, 6 Plus (and others if not updated).
Prediction 🔮📱
Looking ahead, we predict WhatsApp will likely raise its minimum iOS support to version 16 by mid-to-late 2026. This would end functionality for iPhones like the 6s and SE (1st Gen), which currently hold on by a thread. Android users may see version 6.0 or higher as the new benchmark. Users relying on aging devices should prepare now — not just for WhatsApp updates, but for broader digital compatibility in general.
References:
Reported By: 9to5mac.com
Extra Source Hub:
https://www.medium.com
Wikipedia
Undercode AI
Image Source:
Unsplash
Undercode AI DI v2
