Starting June 1, 2025, WhatsApp will officially stop supporting a range of older iPhones and Android smartphones as part of its regular update cycle. Originally scheduled for May 5, this shift was delayed to give users more time to prepare. With this change, only devices running iOS 15.1 or Android 5.1 and above will continue to receive updates and support. If you or someone you know is using an older device, it’s crucial to check now before WhatsApp becomes inaccessible.
Why This Is Happening
Meta, the parent company of WhatsApp, is updating its minimum system requirements to improve user security and performance. This move ensures compatibility with newer features like advanced end-to-end encryption, video calling, and a modern user interface. Unfortunately, older hardware can’t support these improvements, prompting WhatsApp to end support for legacy devices.
Full List of Affected Devices Losing WhatsApp Support
iPhones
- iPhone 5s
- iPhone 6
- iPhone 6 Plus
- iPhone 6s
- iPhone 6s Plus
- iPhone SE (1st Generation)
Android Phones
- Samsung Galaxy S3
- Samsung Galaxy S4
- Samsung Galaxy Note 3
- Sony Xperia Z1
- LG G2
- Huawei Ascend P6
- Moto G (1st Gen)
- Moto E (2014)
- Motorola Razr HD
- HTC One X
What You Can Do If Your Device Is Affected
1. Update iOS (If Possible)
If you own an iPhone 6s, 6s Plus, or iPhone SE (1st gen), check for software updates. You might still be able to upgrade to iOS 15.8.4:
Go to Settings > General > Software Update.
2. Upgrade Your Device
If your phone can’t be updated, it’s time to consider a new device that supports WhatsApp:
- Budget-friendly iPhones: iPhone SE (2nd or 3rd Gen)
- Affordable Android phones: Devices running Android 5.1 or later from brands like Samsung, Xiaomi, and Realme.
3. Switch to Alternative Messaging Apps
Apps like Telegram or Signal may still work on older devices, though you’ll need to check compatibility via your app store. These alternatives also offer good security features.
4. Backup Your Chats Before Losing Access
To avoid losing your conversations:
- On iPhone: Go to Settings > Chats > Chat Backup and use iCloud.
- On Android: Use Google Drive from the same Chat Backup settings.
Why This Matters
Beyond functionality, this move is also about security. WhatsApp’s newer features rely on updated system architectures. By limiting support to modern devices, Meta can deliver stronger encryption, better performance, and a smoother user experience.
If your phone is on the list, act now to avoid disruption and continue enjoying WhatsApp without losing your data.
