Skip to main content

WhatsApp dropping support for older iOS versions in February

Facebook-owned WhatsApp has announced that it is dropping support for older versions of iOS starting in the coming months. According to a new support document, WhatsApp will drop support for iOS 8 and older on February 1, 2020.

Up until now, users running WhatsApp on a device with iOS 8 or older have been able to keep using the app, but have not been able to create new accounts nor reverify existing accounts. On February 1, 2020, however, that will change, with WhatsApp saying support for iOS 8 will be completely dropped.

WhatsApp explains (via CNET):

For the following operating systems, you can no longer create new accounts, nor reverify existing accounts. However, you’ll be able to continue using WhatsApp on:

  • Android versions 2.3.7 and older until February 1, 2020
  • iOS 8 and older until February 1, 2020

The company also notes that there is no option to transfer chat history between platforms, but you can export your chat history as an email attachment.

Meanwhile, Facebook also recently rolled out a change that prevents users from signing up for Facebook Messenger without a Facebook account. This change is likely preparation for anticipated integration of messaging across Facebook’s apps, with Facebook working to link accounts from WhatsApp, Facebook, and Instagram.

WhatsApp dropping support for older iOS versions likely won’t affect many users, but if you have a long history of messages on an unsupported device, you should plan to export your chat history soon to ensure you can still access it.

FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.

Nanoleaf HomeKit lighting
You’re reading 9to5Mac — experts who break news about Apple and its surrounding ecosystem, day after day. Be sure to check out our homepage for all the latest news, and follow 9to5Mac on Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn to stay in the loop. Don’t know where to start? Check out our exclusive stories, reviews, how-tos, and subscribe to our YouTube channel

Comments

Author

Avatar for Chance Miller Chance Miller

Chance is the editor-in-chief of 9to5Mac, overseeing the entire site’s operations. He also hosts the 9to5Mac Daily and 9to5Mac Happy Hour podcasts.

You can send tips, questions, and typos to chance@9to5mac.com.

Manage push notifications

notification icon
We would like to show you notifications for the latest news and updates.
notification icon
You are subscribed to notifications
notification icon
We would like to show you notifications for the latest news and updates.
notification icon
You are subscribed to notifications