WhatsApp, the world’s most popular messaging platform with over two billion monthly users, is dropping support for more devices—this time, three more iPhones are on the chopping block.
Starting May 5, 2025, Meta will officially end WhatsApp compatibility for several older iPhones that can no longer update past iOS 12.5.7. The new WhatsApp update requires at least iOS 15.1, which means any device stuck on older versions will lose access.
Let’s break down the iPhones affected in this latest round.
📱 iPhone 5S
Released in 2013, the iPhone 5S was a game-changer in its time. However, with its final supported update capped at iOS 12.5.7, it can no longer meet WhatsApp’s minimum software requirements if you’ve kept yours running all these years — hats off! But to keep using WhatsApp, it may be time to upgrade.
📱 iPhone 6
Another 2014 classic, the iPhone 6, is also locked at iOS 12.5.7. Despite its longevity and loyal user base, it won’t be able to run the messaging app beyond May 5. If your iPhone 6 is still chugging along, you’re in the minority! But WhatsApp is officially saying goodbye to it.
📱 iPhone 6 Plus
The larger sibling of the iPhone 6, the 6 Plus was Apple’s first foray into big-screen smartphones. While its 5.5-inch display was massive in 2014, the device’s software support has now aged out. Like its counterparts, it’s stuck on iOS 12.5.7 — and that’s no longer enough for WhatsApp.
Why WhatsApp Ends Support for Older Devices
In an official statement, WhatsApp explained:
“Devices and software change often, so we regularly review what operating systems we support and make updates. Every year we look at which devices and software are the oldest and have the fewest users. These devices also might not have the latest security updates, or might lack the functionality required to run WhatsApp.”
Earlier this year, WhatsApp also dropped support for Android devices running Android KitKat and older — part of the same drive to modernize the app and improve security across its platform.
What You Can Do
If you still use any affected iPhones and want to continue using WhatsApp, unfortunately, the only option is to upgrade to a newer device that supports iOS 15.1 or later. That includes:
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iPhone 6S and newer
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iPhone SE (1st gen and beyond)
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Any iPhone model released after 2015
Staying connected is important — and while it’s tough to say goodbye to a trusty old iPhone, this change might be the nudge you need to embrace a more modern (and secure) experience.
