Messaging app WhatsApp is set to stop working altogether on some phones.
It affects phones that are around ten years old, so if you have managed to keep yours this long without fatally dropping it or putting it in the washing machine, it might be time to retire it even so.
Changes to WhatsApp’s compatibility with operating systems mean some older smartphones will no longer be able to run the popular app from today.
In January, some Android users already saw their phones lose access.
Now, it is the turn of those with oldschool iPhones, as the app will only work with iOS 15.1 or later.
The number of people affected by this will not be particularly large – only those with enough talent for technological TLC to have kept their devices in working condition for a decade need worry (if this is you… respect).
But if you’re using a device that old, it’s worth reading on to see if it is named on the list.
Here are the models that will no longer support WhatsApp from May 5, 2025.
- iOS versions earlier than 15.1
- iPhone 5s, iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus
While some iPhone users with older iOSes can simply update their phones, some which are still in use can only be updated to iOS 12.5.7.
The iPhone 5s, iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus were all released in 2013 and 2014.
Meta, which owns WhatsApp, says the changes are part of regular updates to ensure the app stays secure and functional while working with newer phones.
The first WhatsApp compatibility update came on January 1, 2025, when WhatsApp stopped supporting Android’s KitKat OS in addition to any older versions.
How to check your phone’s operating system
On an iPhone:
- Go to Settings, click on ‘General,’ then ‘Information’ and click on ‘iOS Version’
On an Android phone:
- Open the Settings, go to ‘about phone’ and tap ‘Android Version’
Some users who still have KitKat on their phones will still be able to use WhatsApp provided their device can be updated to a more recent OS.
However, there are a number of older phone models which are no longer provided with official updates by their maker.
This means they can’t be updated to a more recent OS unless the user attempts certain types of DIY tinkering, which would void the phone’s warranty and insurance and risk ‘bricking’ it (rendering it inoperable.)
The following Android phones became WhatsApp incompatible on January 1, 2025
- Samsung: Galaxy S3, Galaxy Note 2, Galaxy Ace 3, Galaxy S4 Mini
- Motorola: Moto G (1st Gen), Razr HD, Moto E 2014
- HTC: One X, One X+, Desire 500, Desire 601
- LG: Optimus G, Nexus 4, G2 Mini, L90
- Sony: Xperia Z, Xperia SP, Xperia T, Xperia V
These changes affect both the regular WhatsApp application and WhatsApp Business, which has the same system requirements.
This article was first published on December 29, 2024.
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