Table of Contents
- 1 WhatsApp is raising its standards: these devices are being dropped
- 2 What does this mean for users?
- 3 **How does WhatsApp’s decision to discontinue support for older devices align with the principles of responsible innovation, particularly in regards to accessibility and digital inclusivity for all users?**
WhatsApp will no longer be supported on many older smartphones from May 2025. This happens due to a routine security measure by the messenger, which excludes devices with outdated operating systems. People who use such models are therefore required to take measures to continue using the popular service.
WhatsApp is raising its standards: these devices are being dropped
Users of older iPhones in particular have to adapt to changes. Because WhatsApp is discontinuing the service for all models that do not support iOS version 15.1 or higher. These include devices such as the iPhone 6, 5S, 5C and even older variants. The iPhone 6 Plus will also no longer be compatible. According to the developers, the old software no longer meets the security requirements that modern communication requires.
As with previous shutdowns, WhatsApp cites technical developments as the main reason. Old operating systems cannot support many of the new features. This also increases the risk of security gaps, which is why it is necessary to discontinue support for these devices.
Reading tips: WhatsApp: Surprising change – anyone who notices this should act immediately
What does this mean for users?
“As of May 5, 2025, only iOS versions 15.1 and newer will be supported,” writes the company on its website. Messages cannot then be sent or received. Access to saved chats will then no longer be possible. Users should therefore urgently back up their chat histories, for example using the integrated backup function. This data can then later be transferred to a new device.
If you want to continue using WhatsApp, you should switch to a more recent smartphone. Even inexpensive models offer the necessary requirements to operate the app without any problems. Alternatively, users could also switch to other messenger services such as Telegram or Signal if switching devices is not possible.
The shutdown shows once again that WhatsApp is consistently modernizing its app. New features and security standards are among the reasons why older devices are excluded. Affected users should not hesitate to prepare for the change – because Messenger remains indispensable for many.
Those: WhatsApp
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**How does WhatsApp’s decision to discontinue support for older devices align with the principles of responsible innovation, particularly in regards to accessibility and digital inclusivity for all users?**
## World Today News Exclusive: WhatsApp’s Big Upgrade Leaves Older Devices Behind
**Welcome to World Today News. Today we’re discussing the recent announcement from WhatsApp that will see the popular messaging app discontinue support for numerous older smartphones starting May 2025. To shed light on this, we have two distinguished guests:**
**[Guest 1 Name],** a technology analyst specializing in consumer behavior and app usage, and
**[Guest 2 Name],** a cybersecurity expert focused on mobile device security.
Welcome both!
**Section 1: Understanding the Impact**
* **[Host to Guest 1]:** WhatsApp cites “technical developments” and the need for enhanced security as reasons for this change. Can you elaborate on what those developments might be and how they directly affect older devices? What specific features or functionalities are likely to be affected first by this incompatibility?
* **[Host to Guest 2]:** How significant is the security risk posed by continuing to use WhatsApp on a device that no longer receives security updates? What kind of vulnerabilities could users be exposed to?
**Section 2: The User Perspective**
* **[Host to Guest 1]:** Millions of people rely on WhatsApp for communication. This news will undoubtedly come as a shock to many users with older devices. What are the viable options for those affected? How can they best prepare for this change?
* **[Host to Guest 2]:** For those who choose to upgrade their phones, what are some key factors to consider when selecting a new device in terms of security and ensuring future compatibility with popular apps like WhatsApp?
**Section 3: Looking Ahead: The Future of App Compatibility**
* **[Host to Guest 1]:** This situation raises questions about the broader trend of app developers discontinuing support for older devices. What are the implications for consumers? Will we see more of this in the future?
* **[Host to Guest 2]:** From a cybersecurity perspective, is this ultimately a necessary step for app developers to ensure user safety in a rapidly evolving digital landscape?
**Section 4: Ethical Considerations**
* **[Host to Guest 1]: ** Do you believe WhatsApp’s decision puts a responsibility on them to provide alternative solutions for users who are unable to upgrade their devices due to financial constraints or other limitations?
**[Host to Guest 2]:** What ethical dilemmas arise when technological advancement creates a digital divide, potentially excluding some individuals or communities from essential communication tools?
**Closing Remarks**
* **[Host]:** Thank you both for sharing your insights on this important issue. This change by WhatsApp highlights the complexities of navigating a constantly evolving tech landscape and the balance between innovation, security, and inclusivity. We encourage our viewers to consider these factors as they prepare for the future of their digital communication.
