Zoom to End Support for iOS 13 and iOS 14: What Users Need to Know
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Users of older Apple devices should take note: Zoom is preparing to discontinue support for iOS versions 13 and 14. This change, announced in the latest Zoom update (version 6.5.10), will require users to update to iOS 15 or later to continue utilizing the video conferencing platform. The move reflects a broader industry trend of phasing out support for legacy software to optimize performance and security.
Understanding the Impact
While a specific date for the cutoff hasn’t been revealed, the impending change means that individuals relying on Zoom thru older iPhones or iPads will eventually need to upgrade their operating systems. Fortunately, Apple’s software compatibility ensures that all devices capable of running iOS 13 can also operate iOS 15, mitigating potential hardware limitations. This transition is primarily a software update, offering a relatively seamless path forward for most users.
The decision to end support for older iOS versions likely stems from a declining user base and the benefits of focusing development efforts on more current platforms. Maintaining compatibility with older systems can introduce complexities and security vulnerabilities, making it strategically advantageous to streamline support.
Did You Know?
Software updates frequently enough include critical security patches, protecting users from emerging threats.
What iPad Users need to Consider
The announcement extends to iPadOS as well, with Zoom indicating the upcoming end of support for iPadOS 13 and 14. Similar to iPhones, all iPads that previously supported iPadOS 13 are also compatible with iPadOS 15. This ensures a smooth transition for iPad users who rely on Zoom for communication and collaboration.
For corporate environments, where device management policies frequently enough dictate software versions, this change presents a unique challenge. Many organizations maintain older iOS versions on company-owned devices for security or compatibility reasons.
Pro Tip:
If you manage devices for an organization,proactively contacting your IT department is crucial to ensure a timely and coordinated update process.
Key Dates and compatibility
| Operating System | Support Status |
|---|---|
| iOS 13 | Support Ending Soon |
| iOS 14 | Support Ending Soon |
| iOS 15+ | Supported |
| iPadOS 13 | Support Ending Soon |
| iPadOS 14 | Support Ending Soon |
| iPadOS 15+ | Supported |
The move by Zoom aligns with industry best practices for software maintenance and security. According to a report by Statista, as of January 2024, over 86% of iPhones were running iOS 16 or later, indicating a critically important shift towards newer operating systems. [Statista] This trend likely influenced Zoom’s decision to prioritize support for more widely adopted platforms.
Are you prepared for this change, and does your organization have a plan for updating devices? What challenges do you anticipate with this transition?
The evolving Landscape of Video Conferencing
The video conferencing market has experienced explosive growth in recent years, driven by remote work trends and the increasing need for virtual collaboration. Platforms like Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and Google Meet have become essential tools for businesses and individuals alike. As these platforms evolve, they continually refine their features, enhance security, and optimize performance. A key aspect of this evolution is the ongoing need to support modern operating systems and hardware while phasing out legacy systems to maintain a secure and efficient user experience.
Frequently Asked Questions About Zoom and iOS Support
- What happens if I don’t update my iOS version? You will eventually lose access to the Zoom request.
- is my iPhone compatible with iOS 15? If your iPhone currently runs iOS 13, it is compatible with iOS 15.
- Will this change effect my Zoom subscription? no, this change only affects compatibility with older iOS versions.
- How can I update my iOS version? Go to Settings > General > Software Update on your iPhone or iPad.
- What if my company manages my device updates? Contact your IT department for assistance with updating your device.
We hope this information helps you prepare for the upcoming changes to Zoom’s iOS support. If you found this article helpful, please share it with your colleagues and friends! We also welcome your comments and feedback below.
