TIME has run out for a number of WhatsApp users on iPhone after a short reprieve.

The app was meant to stop working at the start of May, on three popular models once used by millions of people.

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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 WhatsApp owner Meta has changed the minimum requirements for iPhone operating system iOS.

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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.

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These are:

• iPhone 5s
• iPhone 6
• iPhone 6 Plus

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 iPhone 16e which starts at £599 / $599.

And there are plenty of good Android options around too if you're tempted to switch, such as the Google Pixel 9a and Samsung Galaxy A56.