WhatsApp is set to stop supporting certain older iPhone models in the coming months, prompting the Meta-owned messaging platform to restrict beta testers from installing new updates on those devices. Starting in May, users must ensure their iPhones are operating on a recent version of iOS to continue receiving WhatsApp updates. This adjustment to the minimum iOS version paves the way for the introduction of features that leverage the latest iOS technologies.
WhatsApp Beta Update Requires iOS 15.1 or Newer
Individuals who have signed up to receive beta updates for WhatsApp must have their iPhones updated to iOS 15.1 or later to install the latest beta, version 25.1.10.72. This requirement was reported by WABetaInfo, a notable source for tracking emerging features and modifications within the messaging platform.
WhatsApp TestFlight builds are incompatible with older iOS versions
Photo Credit: WABetaInfo
For users still on iOS 14 or earlier, they can update their devices by opening the Settings app and navigating to General > Software Update > Install Now. After completing the update, they will be able to download the latest WhatsApp beta version.
However, users of the iPhone 6, iPhone 6 Plus, and iPhone 5s will be unable to update to iOS 15, marking the end of their ability to participate in the beta program. For the time being, these users can continue using their current WhatsApp beta version for a few weeks until it eventually expires. They may opt to use the stable version of the app, which will still receive updates until early May.
The stable version of WhatsApp on iOS will remain operational for these older models until May 5. After this date, users must either update to iOS 15.1 or transition to a newer smartphone if an upgrade is not feasible.
With the removal of support for iOS 12, iOS 13, and iOS 14, WhatsApp will be positioned to introduce new features available on the latest iOS versions. The app’s App Store listing currently specifies a requirement of iOS 15.1 or later, while WhatsApp Business, which presently requires iOS 12, will also align with the new requirement in May.
