WhatsApp users blocked from sending messages as app stops working on three beloved iPhone models
The app was
2
May 5 deadline was pushed back
Credit: Getty
2
iPhone 6 Plus among the handsets affected
Credit: Getty
However this was pushed back a few weeks, according to
Now, time is well and truly up with a new cut off deadline striking last night.
Although the affected models are older there are still a small percentage of people using them today.
It's all come about because
Read more about WhatsApp
Previously, you needed at least iOS 12 but that's now been upped to iOS 15.1.
For most iPhones, that's not a problem as they can be upgraded to the newer software for free.
But the tech on some older iPhones are considered too dated to handle these updates, so they're left behind.
There are three iPhone models that are newly unable to use WhatsApp as such.
Most read in Tech
These are:
iPhone 5s
iPhone 6
iPhone 6 Plus
WhatsApp reveals exacty how to block one of your contacts
The oldest among them is the iPhone 5s, which was released more than 10 years ago.
"Devices and software change often, so we regularly review what operating systems we support and make updates," WhatsApp says.
"Every year we look at which devices and software are the oldest and have the fewest users.
"These devices also might not have the latest security updates, or might lack the functionality required to run WhatsApp.
"Before we stop supporting your operating system, you'll be notified in WhatsApp and reminded a few times to upgrade."
WHAT TO DO IF I'M AFFECTED
Sadly, if you want to continue using WhatsApp the best option is to upgrade your phone.
Of course, the trusty SMS text message will still work, as well as Apple's own iMessage, so you could switch but you won't have key features like groups anymore as you do on WhatsApp.
If you do opt for an upgrade, it doesn't have to be the most expensive option around.
Even Apple has a new cheaper version of the iPhone.
The latest being the
And there are plenty of good Android options around too if you're tempted to switch, such as the
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