WhatsApp to End Support for older Devices: A Necesary Evolution?
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By Archynetys News Team
In a move signaling the relentless march of technological progress, Meta has announced that WhatsApp will discontinue support for a range of older devices starting in May 2025.This decision, while perhaps disruptive for some users, is framed as a necessary step to optimize the request and leverage cutting-edge technologies, notably Meta’s AI initiatives.
The Cut-Off: Which Devices Are Affected?
Specifically, WhatsApp will cease functioning on devices running versions older than iOS 15.1. This primarily impacts iPhone models such as the iPhone 5s, iPhone 6, and iPhone 6 Plus, all of which were released between 2013 and 2014. While some older iPhones might technically operate on earlier iOS versions,these particular models lack the capacity to upgrade to the required software.
This decision aligns with industry trends. According to a recent report by Statista, approximately 95% of iPhone users are currently running iOS 15 or later. Though,the remaining 5% still represents a meaningful number of individuals who will be affected by this change.
User Impact and Mitigation
Meta has stated that users of affected devices will receive advance notification within the app.The consequence of failing to upgrade to a compatible device is the loss of access to WhatsApp. This highlights the growing pressure on consumers to regularly update thier hardware to maintain access to essential services.
For users unable to upgrade their devices,alternative messaging platforms or web-based WhatsApp access (if available and supported on their device) may offer temporary solutions. Though, these alternatives may lack the full functionality of the native app.
Why the Change? The Drive for Innovation
The primary driver behind this decision is WhatsApp’s ambition to integrate advanced features powered by artificial intelligence, including image generation and enhanced user assistance. These features demand significant processing power and rely on modern operating system capabilities that older devices simply cannot provide.
We stop admitting old operating devices and systems.
This move reflects a broader trend within the tech industry, where companies are increasingly prioritizing innovation and performance over maintaining compatibility with legacy hardware. While this approach can lead to user frustration, it also enables the growth of more powerful and feature-rich applications.
A Reminder: SMS Verification Remains Essential
It’s crucial to remember that WhatsApp registration requires SMS or call verification. Accounts cannot be configured solely via Wi-Fi. This security measure, while sometimes inconvenient, helps to prevent fraudulent account creation and ensures the authenticity of users.