Beginning Monday, May 5, 2025, WhatsApp will no longer be compatible with certain older models of iPhones and Android smartphones, according to recent updates from Meta, the parent company behind the messaging app. This move is part of WhatsApp’s ongoing efforts to improve security, functionality, and performance on newer devices.
The company revealed that upcoming changes to its minimum system requirements mean some users with outdated software versions will need to upgrade their devices to continue using the platform.
In a statement, WhatsApp noted:
“Currently, we provide support for and recommend using devices that run Android OS 5.0 or newer, as well as iPhones running iOS 12 or newer. However, starting May 5, 2025, only iOS versions 15.1 and newer will be supported.”
The company added that users would be notified in advance before service is discontinued on unsupported phones:
“Before we stop supporting your operating system, you’ll receive notifications in WhatsApp and be reminded several times to upgrade. We’ll continue to update this page regularly to ensure that the latest supported operating systems are listed.”
Which Devices Are Losing Support?
iPhone models expected to be affected include older editions released between 2013 and 2014. These include:
iPhone 5s
iPhone 6
iPhone 6 Plus
As for Android, phones that cannot upgrade beyond Android 4.4 (KitKat) or older will no longer meet the requirements to run WhatsApp. Below are some of the affected models:
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
Feature Phones Also Affected
According to reports, the WhatsApp update also affects some KaiOS-powered feature phones, including:
JioPhone
JioPhone 2
Nokia 800 Tough
Nokia 2720 Flip
Nokia 2760 Flip
Nokia 2780 Flip
Nokia 6300 4G
Nokia 8000 4G
Nokia 8110 4G
Users of these phones may be able to continue using WhatsApp only if their devices are eligible for software upgrades. Otherwise, transitioning to a newer phone model will be necessary to maintain access to the messaging app.
How to Check Your OS Version
iPhone users can check their operating system version by going to Settings > General > Information, then selecting iOS Version.
Android users should navigate to Settings > About phone, then tap Android Version.
