Millions of iPhone users may need to check their device software before the end of November as WhatsApp prepares to increase the minimum iOS version required to run the messaging application.
The Meta-owned platform has announced that from November 30, 2026, WhatsApp will require iPhones to be running iOS 15.5 or a newer version, replacing the current minimum requirement of iOS 15.1.
The change particularly concerns owners of some older iPhone models, including the iPhone 6s, iPhone 6s Plus, first-generation iPhone SE, iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus.
However, users of these devices may not necessarily need to purchase new phones.
Five iPhones users should check
The affected models are:
- iPhone 6s
- iPhone 6s Plus
- iPhone SE (1st generation)
- iPhone 7
- iPhone 7 Plus
These devices are capable of running versions of iOS 15 that meet WhatsApp’s new requirement. Reports indicate that the models can be updated to iOS 15.8.x, meaning users who install the latest compatible software should be able to continue using WhatsApp.
What users need to do
iPhone owners can check their software by opening Settings, selecting General, and then choosing Software Update.
If an update is available, users are advised to install the latest version compatible with their device before the November 30 deadline.
WhatsApp has said users affected by changes to its operating-system requirements will receive notifications within the application reminding them to upgrade.
The company regularly reviews the devices and operating systems it supports, particularly older platforms that may no longer receive adequate security updates or support newer features.
No immediate need to replace the phone
Despite reports that WhatsApp will “stop working” on five iPhone models, the change does not automatically mean that the devices themselves are being abandoned.
The key issue is the iOS version installed on the phone. Since the five models can run a qualifying version of iOS 15, updating the software should be sufficient to maintain WhatsApp access.
Users who cannot install iOS 15.5 or a newer supported version, however, will eventually lose access to WhatsApp once the new requirement takes effect.
The platform’s latest support information therefore means iPhone owners should check their software version rather than assume they must immediately replace their devices.
