WhatsApp discontinues support for iPhone 4S
Your iPhone 4S is working fine. WhatsApp runs smoothly. Until November. Then it's over. From November 1, 2021, WhatsApp will only support iOS 10 and higher. Millions of users with older devices face a dilemma: upgrade or no more WhatsApp.
But here's the surprise: this isn't just bad news. It forces you to finally take that step you've been contemplating for months. A newer model with better security, a faster processor, and longer battery life. Plus, with your new iPhone, you'll probably also update your accessories. Think of those AirPods you've been eyeing for a while.
WhatsApp does this annually - dumping older systems for safety. The question isn't whether you should upgrade, but when you'll take the plunge.
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WhatsApp discontinues support for older iPhones
From November 1, 2021, WhatsApp will only support iOS 10 and higher. This means that millions of users with older devices will no longer have access to the messaging app. The decision primarily affects owners of the iPhone 4S and older models. These phones run on iOS 9 or lower and cannot be updated to the required version.
Which iPhones will lose WhatsApp support?
The following models will no longer be able to use WhatsApp from November:
- iPhone 2G (original iPhone)
- iPhone 3G
- iPhone 3GS
- iPhone 4
- iPhone 4S
All iPhones from iPhone 5 onwards will continue to work with WhatsApp. This is because these devices support iOS 10 or higher. The iPhone 5 from 2012 is thus the oldest model that will remain compatible.
Why is support being discontinued?
WhatsApp has not provided an official statement, but security likely plays the main role. Older operating systems lack important security updates and modern encryption technologies. By only supporting more recent iOS versions, WhatsApp can guarantee better security for all users.
This is not a one-time action. WhatsApp implements such changes annually. For example, with the January 2021 update, support for even older systems was already discontinued. Keep this in mind when purchasing a used device.
Overview of compatible iPhones
Models that will continue to support WhatsApp:
- iPhone 5, 5C and 5S
- iPhone 6 and 6 Plus
- iPhone 6S and 6S Plus
- iPhone SE (2016)
- iPhone 7 and 7 Plus
- iPhone 8 and 8 Plus
- iPhone X
- iPhone XR
- iPhone XS and XS Max
- iPhone 11, 11 Pro and 11 Pro Max
- iPhone 12 Mini, 12, 12 Pro and 12 Pro Max
- All newer models
Check your iOS version
Want to be sure if your device will continue to support WhatsApp? Check which iOS version you are using:
- Open Settings on your iPhone
- Tap General
- Select Software Update
- Here you will see the current version and any available updates
Is it iOS 10 or higher? Then WhatsApp will continue to work. Do you see iOS 9 or lower without an update option? Then you will lose access to the app.
Install an update directly
If an update is available, install it immediately. Some older phones that currently run iOS 9 may be able to update to iOS 10. This applies, for example, to certain iPhone 5 models. The installation takes about 30 minutes, depending on your internet connection.
Save chat history
Users of affected devices must act quickly to save their messages. After November 1, access to the app will be impossible, including creating backups.
Steps to save chats:
- Open WhatsApp on your old iPhone
- Go to Settings
- Tap Chats
- Select Chat Backup
- Choose Back Up Now
- Wait for the backup to complete
The backup will be stored in iCloud. When installing WhatsApp on a new device, all conversations will be automatically restored. Make sure to log in with the same iCloud account.
Affordable alternatives for upgrading
Do you need to upgrade but don't want to spend too much? Consider a refurbished model. These devices have been thoroughly checked and work like new, but cost significantly less.
iPhone SE 2020: compact and powerful
The iPhone SE from 2020 combines the familiar design of older models with modern technology. The screen is slightly larger at 4.7 inches than the iPhone 4S (3.5 inches), but the device remains compact. The A13 Bionic processor ensures fast performance and years of support.
Advantages of this model:
- Familiar size for iPhone 4 users
- Touch ID instead of Face ID
- Excellent camera despite single lens
- Minimum 5 years of software updates guaranteed
iPhone 8: proven quality
The iPhone 8 with 64GB offers a good balance between price and performance. This device from 2017 still receives the latest iOS updates and is likely to be supported until 2024.
Pros of the iPhone 8:
- Wireless charging possible
- Water and dust resistant (IP67)
- Stereo speakers for better sound
- Available in various storage capacities
Practical tips for the transition
Transfer data
In addition to WhatsApp messages, you will naturally want to keep other data. Use Apple's built-in transfer function:
- Place both phones next to each other
- Follow the on-screen instructions
- All apps, photos, and settings will be automatically copied
Alternatively, you can create an iCloud backup of the entire device. This does require sufficient storage space in your iCloud account.
Bring accessories
Check which accessories are compatible with your new phone. Older 30-pin cables will not work with modern Lightning connectors. Cases usually won't fit due to different dimensions. Original Apple EarPods with Lightning connector will work on all more recent models.
Keep an eye on future updates
WhatsApp adjusts system requirements approximately annually. When purchasing a used device, it is advisable to choose a model that will last at least three more years. An iPhone X or newer is a safe choice for the coming years.
The following models may be at risk with future updates:
- iPhone 5 series (with the next major update)
- iPhone 6 series (within two years)
- iPhone SE 2016 (within two to three years)
Newer models like the iPhone 11 and 12 series are likely to be supported until 2027 or longer. This makes them interesting for those who don't want to upgrade quickly.
Check other apps
WhatsApp is not the only app that discontinues support for older systems. Instagram, Facebook, and Snapchat have similar requirements. Banking apps are often even stricter due to security requirements. Therefore, also check your other essential apps before buying a used device.
The choice is yours
The choice is clear: will you stick to your old iPhone and lose WhatsApp, or will you switch to a newer model? For those who don't need the absolute latest, a refurbished iPhone offers a practical solution. You retain access to WhatsApp and other modern apps, without paying a premium price.
Don't forget to secure your chat history before November arrives. And think ahead: choose a model that will last at least three more years, so you don't face the same choice next year.
