WhatsApp will cease support for three older iPhone models starting May 5, 2025. Users of the iPhone 5s, iPhone 6, and iPhone 6 Plus will need to upgrade their devices to continue using the app. This decision affects devices that are over a decade old and unable to upgrade to the required operating system.
WhatsApp to end support for older iPhone models in 2025
WhatsApp has announced it will no longer support the iPhone 5s, iPhone 6, and iPhone 6 Plus due to their incompatibility with newer operating systems. Currently, WhatsApp supports iOS 12 and later, but an upcoming update will require iOS 15.1 or newer, as reported by WABetaInfo. This change aims to leverage updated APIs and features that enhance the app’s functionality.
WhatsApp’s decision to drop support for older models comes as part of its strategy to optimize operations and introduce new features. The iPhone 6, in particular, was one of Apple’s most successful models, with sales exceeding 220 million units since its release in 2014. Despite its popularity, it is now deemed outdated in terms of software capabilities.
Users are receiving notifications that they must update their iPhones to at least iOS 15.1 to continue using WhatsApp. This requirement provides a five-month notice period, allowing users to explore options for device upgrades or consider alternatives if their current hardware cannot support newer iOS versions.
As of May 2025, users with the affected models will lose access to WhatsApp unless they upgrade to supported devices. For those needing to make the transition, WhatsApp has enabled them to back up their chats to iCloud and transfer their history to a new phone. Instructions for this process are available through WhatsApp’s Help Center.
Additionally, WhatsApp is also phasing out support for older iPad models, including the first-generation iPad Air, iPad mini 2, and iPad mini 3, in a similar update. The current beta version of WhatsApp for iPads requires users to operate on iPadOS 12 or later.
According to Apple, a mere 9% of all iPhones still run software versions earlier than iOS 16. This statistic highlights the necessity for developers, including WhatsApp, to concentrate on the latest technologies and features by discontinuing support for outdated devices.
WhatsApp’s recent updates include several new features, such as the introduction of voice message transcripts and the ability to tag users in Status updates. These enhancements underscore the app’s commitment to improving user experience while maintaining compatibility with the latest software.
The impending deadline has prompted users to consider device upgrades and evaluate the longevity of their current technology.
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