WhatsApp Will Stop Working on These Popular iPhones in May 2025

Meta-owned WhatsApp has announced it will stop supporting older iOS versions starting May 5, 2025. This move will impact several legacy devices, including iPhone models running iOS versions earlier than 15.1.

According to WABetaInfo, the change affects both the standard WhatsApp app and WhatsApp Business, leaving affected users with a five-month window to upgrade or switch devices.

Which iPhones Will Lose WhatsApp Support?

The announcement means that several older iPhone models will no longer be compatible with WhatsApp from 2025, including:

• iPhone 5s

• iPhone 6

• iPhone 6 Plus

These devices, which remain popular among a segment of users, are not eligible for the iOS 15.1 update required to continue running WhatsApp. Users of newer iPhones running outdated software will need to update their operating system to at least iOS 15.1 to retain access to WhatsApp services.

Why Is WhatsApp Ending Support for Older Versions?

WhatsApp regularly phases out support for older operating systems to leverage improved APIs and technologies available in newer software. By focusing on updated systems, the platform can introduce advanced features and maintain a consistent user experience across devices. This strategic decision ensures users on supported devices benefit from faster updates and more robust features.

In the same vein, support will also end for KaiOS devices, including feature phones like the JioPhone and JioPhone 2, as part of the platform's move toward prioritizing smartphones and newer software capabilities.

What Users Need to Do

Affected users have until May 5, 2025, to transition. WhatsApp offers the following recommendations for a smooth transition:

• Back Up Chat History: Use WhatsApp's backup feature to save your chat history and media to iCloud or Google Drive.

• Upgrade to a Newer Device: If your current device cannot update to iOS 15.1, consider upgrading to a newer iPhone or compatible device.

• Use the Chat Transfer Tool: Restore your chat history on a new device using WhatsApp's built-in chat transfer feature.