WhatsApp is dropping support for iOS 10 and iOS 11 and has silently made iOS 12 as the minimum software requirement for iPhone users. By leaving the older iOS versions behind, WhatsApp is finally discontinuing support for the models iPhone 5 and iPhone 5c — giving users a reason to upgrade to a newer iPhone. WhatsApp has started informing users on the iOS 10 and iOS 11 about the update. Dropping support for the older iOS versions essentially means that WhatsApp users would no longer be able to receive new updates as well as security fixes for the instant messaging app until they move to a new iOS version — or a newer hardware running iOS 12 or a later version. [1]

Figure 1. WhatsApp to Drop Support for iPhone Models Running iOS 10, iOS 11

Figure 1 shows Users on iOS 10 or iOS 11 will need to update to iOS 12 in order to continue using WhatsApp, this means that you won’t be able to use it on the iPhone 5 and iPhone 5C. Updating to a more recent version of an operating system is also important because they generally contain the most up-to-date software patches and security features. [2]

WhatsApp will stop supposing iOS 10 and iOS 11

According to WABetaInfo, WhatsApp is going to end support for iPhones running on iOS 10 and iOS 11. The instant messaging platform is doing so as the newer features that it will launch might not be functional on devices running iOS 10 and iOS 11. The change will take place from October 24, 2022, as mentioned in the report. Those who use iPhones with iOS 12 and above will still be able to use WhatsApp with all the new features including message reactions and more.

The change in supported operating systems has been confirmed by WhatsApp as the official FAQ post mentions iOS 12 to be the recommended iOS version for running WhatsApp. Over time, instant messaging platforms tend to upgrade their software which increases the resources it requires to function optimally. This is why WhatsApp or any other messaging platform or app for that matter stops supporting an older version of operating systems. [3]

WhatsApp introduces ‘request account info’ on Desktop

The instant messaging app announced the rollout of a beta update for users to request their account information on WhatsApp Desktop. The feature has already been introduced on iOS and Android as per the EU’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), WABetaInfo said. The feature rolled out to beta testers is accessible from the ‘Request Account Info’ option in the WhatsApp Settings menu. Reportedly, the requested account information report will include activity info, privacy settings, device details and contacts. [4]

References:

1. https://gadgets360.com/apps/news/whatsapp-ios-10-11-iphone-5-5c-support-update-october-24-3000261#pfrom=topstory
2. https://indianexpress.com/article/technology/social/whatsapp-to-stop-supporting-ios-10-ios-11-iphone-5-iphone-5c-report-7931460/
3. https://www.republicworld.com/technology-news/apps/whatsapp-will-drop-support-for-two-iphone-models-later-this-year-reports-articleshow.html
4. https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/info-tech/social-media/whatsapp-will-stop-working-on-ios-10-and-ios-11-devices-from-october-24/article65452942.ece

Cite this article:

Thanusri swetha J (2022), WhatsApp to Drop Support for iPhone Models Running iOS 10, iOS 11, AnaTechMaz, pp. 82