The WhatsApp instant messaging application, owned by Meta, announced its intention to stop supporting a number of old versions of the iOS operating system, as of next November 30.
According to the new update, the application will be limited to iPhone devices running iOS 15.5 or later, which will affect users whose devices are still running older versions, including users of the “WhatsApp Business” application.
The website “WABetaInfo”, which specializes in following up on WhatsApp updates, stated that “Meta” has already begun sending notifications to affected users, urging them to update the operating system before the decision comes into effect.
WhatsApp explained that the decision comes in light of the continuous expansion in adding new features that require technical capabilities available in the latest versions of the operating system, which makes continuing to support old software more difficult and limits the pace of application development.
The company confirmed that most users will not need to replace their devices, as devices supporting iOS 15 can upgrade to version 15.5 or later versions within the same series and continue using the application without interruption.
The update also includes the “WhatsApp Business” application, due to its reliance on the same basic software architecture used in the main application.
WhatsApp is also scheduled to stop supporting some Android devices later this year, as part of the company’s periodic policy of updating operating requirements.
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