Starting June 1, 2025, WhatsApp will stop working on several older iPhones and Android devices, as the platform raises its minimum system requirements to ensure better security and performance.
❗ Why Is WhatsApp Ending Support for Older Devices?
This is part of Meta’s regular update cycle, which helps maintain app stability and protect user data. The primary reason is security: older operating systems like iOS 15 or Android 5.0 and below no longer receive regular security updates from Apple or Google, making devices vulnerable to threats.
📴 Phones That Will No Longer Support WhatsApp (From June 1, 2025)
📱 iPhones
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iPhone 5s
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iPhone 6
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iPhone 6 Plus
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iPhone 6s
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iPhone 6s Plus
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iPhone SE (1st Gen)
🤖 Android Phones
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Samsung Galaxy S4
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Samsung Galaxy Note 3
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Sony Xperia Z1
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LG G2
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Huawei Ascend P6
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Moto G (1st Gen)
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Motorola Razr HD
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Moto E (2014)
These devices either run iOS 15 or earlier or Android 5.0 or earlier — both of which will no longer be supported.
✅ What Can You Do if You Own One of These Phones?
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Check your software version:
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On iPhone: Settings > General > About → Look for the iOS version.
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On Android: Settings > About Phone > Software Information.
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If you're on iOS 15.1 or Android 5.1 (or later):
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You're safe! WhatsApp will continue to work.
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Try updating your OS if an update is available.
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If your phone cannot be updated:
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Back up your WhatsApp chats:
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Go to Settings > Chats > Chat Backup.
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Use your Google or iCloud account to store the backup.
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Transfer the data to a newer device once you upgrade.
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🔐 New WhatsApp Privacy Features Prompting the Update
Meta is rolling out more advanced privacy tools, which older systems can't support:
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Copy protection for texts, images, and videos.
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Chat lock using fingerprint, Face ID, or passwords.
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Enhanced disappearing messages with flexible time controls.
These tools require newer system architecture to function properly, further explaining why older phones are being phased out.
📌 Bottom Line
If you’re using one of the listed devices, it’s time to upgrade or update your software if possible. WhatsApp is prioritizing user safety, and while it’s unfortunate for older phone owners, this move ensures the platform stays secure and efficient for the vast majority of users.
