WhatsApp will today stop functioning on three older iPhone models, leaving users unable to send or receive messages unless they upgrade their operating system or switch devices.
The Meta-owned platform has confirmed that from now on, only iPhones running iOS 15.1 or later will be supported.
As a result, the iPhone 5s, iPhone 6, and iPhone 6 Plus — none of which can be updated to iOS 15.1 — will lose access to WhatsApp.
A WhatsApp spokesperson told MailOnline: “Every year we look at which devices and software are the oldest and have the fewest users. These devices also might not have the latest security updates, or might lack the functionality required to run WhatsApp.”
All three affected models were launched more than a decade ago and officially declared obsolete by Apple.
The iPhone 5s was introduced in 2013, while the iPhone 6 and 6 Plus followed in 2014. Apple stopped selling and servicing them in 2016.
This change will affect users still relying on these older phones, although WhatsApp says the number is relatively small. Other popular apps like Instagram and Spotify have already stopped working on the outdated devices.
According to WhatsApp: “Devices and software change often, so we regularly review what operating systems we support and make updates. Before we stop supporting your operating system, you’ll be notified in WhatsApp and reminded a few times to upgrade.”
Users can check their iPhone’s software version by going to Settings > General > About. If eligible, they can update to a newer version under General > Software Update. iPhones from the 6s model upwards are capable of running iOS 15.1.
The move comes just after WhatsApp quietly rolled out a new blue circle icon inside all chats — a shortcut to Meta AI, the company’s artificial intelligence chatbot.
Meta said: “Meta AI through WhatsApp is an optional service from Meta that can answer your questions, teach you something, or help come up with new ideas.”
Despite being optional, the feature has angered many users in the UK. One wrote on X: “Okay, how do I get rid of Meta AI in WhatsApp?
The button is constantly hovering in the way and I will never ever use it.” Another added: “Massive ‘ask AI’ button WhatsApp omg just leave me alone man.”
