WhatsApp shutting down permanently on these iPhones and Android devices. Is your phone on the list?

WhatsApp will stop functioning on a number of older smartphones as part of its routine software update cycle beginning Sunday, June 1, 2025. The update, initially expected on May 5, was delayed to allow users more time to prepare. The Meta-owned messaging platform has raised its minimum operating system requirements, resulting in the end of support for devices that can no longer meet these standards.

To continue using WhatsApp, iPhones must now be running iOS 15.1 or later, while Android devices must operate on Android 5.1 or newer. Devices that fall short of these criteria will lose access to the app's messaging and calling services.

Full List of Affected iPhones and Android Phones
Several older Apple and Android devices will be impacted. The following iPhone models are confirmed to be incompatible with the new version of WhatsApp:

• iPhone 5s
• iPhone 6
• iPhone 6 Plus

Additional models such as the iPhone 6s, iPhone 6s Plus, and iPhone SE (1st generation) have also been mentioned in some reports. However, these devices are capable of running iOS 15.8.4, which means they remain compatible for the time being.

On the Android side, the devices losing support include:

• Samsung Galaxy S4
• Samsung Galaxy Note 3
• Sony Xperia Z1
• LG G2
• Huawei Ascend P6
• Moto G (1st Gen)
• Motorola Razr HD
• Moto E (2014)
• HTC One X
• Samsung Galaxy S3

Any device running Android 5.0 or earlier is no longer supported due to the new minimum requirement of Android 5.1.

Why WhatsApp Is Dropping Support for Older Devices
WhatsApp routinely updates its software to utilize newer system capabilities, enhance app performance, and improve security measures. As operating systems and hardware age, they become unable to support advanced features like end-to-end encryption, video calling, and improved user interface options. Discontinuing support for outdated systems ensures WhatsApp can deliver a consistent and secure experience to its user base, which exceeds 3 billion globally.

Security remains a major concern. Older devices no longer receive updates from manufacturers like Apple and Google, leaving them vulnerable to security risks. WhatsApp has emphasized the need to use newer devices to maintain strong protection for personal data.

What Users Can Do Next

For users with devices listed above, several options are available:

Upgrade the Device: Buying a new phone that supports iOS 15.1 or Android 5.1 (or higher) is the most reliable way to continue using WhatsApp.

Update the Software: For users with iPhone 6s, 6s Plus, or SE (1st gen), updating to iOS 15.8.4 will maintain compatibility for now.

Switch to Alternatives: Apps like Telegram and Signal may still function on older systems, though their feature sets and user bases differ.

Back Up Chats: Before support ends, users are advised to back up their chat history. On iPhones, this can be done via iCloud; Android users can use Google Drive. To do so, go to Settings > Chats > Chat Backup within the WhatsApp app.

Low Impact Expected in Developed Regions

According to data from Apple in 2024, only about 5% of active iPhones are still running iOS 15 or earlier, suggesting that the change will affect a relatively small portion of users, particularly in developed markets. However, in regions with slower device turnover, the impact may be more noticeable.

For more information, users can visit WhatsApp’s official support page or check their phone’s software version under Settings.