WhatsApp has announced that it will no longer support certain older mobile phones, effective May 5, 2025, as part of its efforts to maintain security and ensure optimal performance across newer hardware and operating systems.
This decision will affect both WhatsApp and WhatsApp Business, as both applications share the exact system requirements.
For iPhone users, the app will cease to function on iOS versions earlier than 15.1.
Specifically, the following Apple devices will no longer be compatible with the application: iPhone 5s, iPhone 6, and iPhone 6 Plus.
Only iOS 12.5.7, which doesn’t meet the new minimum requirement, supports these models.
Earlier in the year, on January 1, 2025, WhatsApp also ended support for Android KitKat (version 4.4) and earlier.
As a result, several Android devices are no longer compatible with app.
WhatsApp Won’t Work On These Phones
- Samsung Galaxy S3
- Galaxy Note 2
- Galaxy Ace 3
- Galaxy S4 Mini
- Motorola Moto G (1st Generation)
- Moto E (2014)
- Razr HD
- HTC One X
- One X+
- Desire 500
- Desire 601
- LG Optimus G
- G2 Mini
- L90
- Nexus 4
- Sony Xperia Z
- Xperia SP
- Xperia T
- Xperia V
We expect this change to affect a limited number of users, primarily those using smartphones that are more than a decade old.
Meta states that the change is necessary to allow the app to continue operating efficiently and securely on the latest devices.