By Opeyemi Adelakun
WhatsApp is set to increase its minimum operating system requirement for iPhone users, with the new rule taking effect from November 30, 2026.
The messaging platform will require iPhones to run iOS 15.5 or a later version, replacing the current minimum requirement of iOS 15.1.
The change will affect users of the iPhone 6s, iPhone 6s Plus, first-generation iPhone SE, iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus.
However, owners of the affected devices may not necessarily need to replace their phones.
The five models are capable of running iOS 15.8.x, meaning users can retain access to WhatsApp by installing the latest compatible software update before the new requirement takes effect.
The development makes checking the software version on affected iPhones important ahead of the November 30 deadline.
Users can check their devices’ software update settings and install the latest available compatible version to ensure continued access to WhatsApp.
Those whose devices cannot meet the new minimum requirement after the deadline may eventually be unable to use the application on those phones.
The change forms part of WhatsApp’s periodic adjustment of supported operating systems as the platform updates its technical requirements and features.
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