So, you’re scrolling through WhatsApp memes, sending questionable voice notes, and living your best chat life — and then bam! News reports that WhatsApp is saying goodbye to some iPhones in May 2025. Cue the collective gasp from vintage iPhone warriors.
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WhatsApp’s 2025 Update Brings a Major Change
Yes, it’s official. Starting May 5, 2025, WhatsApp will pull the plug on support for iPhones running iOS versions earlier than 15.1. That means certain older models — we’re looking at you, iPhone 5s, 6, and 6 Plus — will no longer get WhatsApp love. No more updates, no more bug fixes, and eventually, no more functionality. If you’re still clinging to one of these retro beauties, it might be time for a digital reality check.
But don’t panic-text your group chat just yet. Let’s break down what’s happening — and what you need to do.
Which iPhones Will Lose WhatsApp Access?
Let’s get straight to the heartbreak. If you’re using any of the following iPhones, WhatsApp will become a ghost in the machine starting May 2025:
- iPhone 5s
- iPhone 6
- iPhone 6 Plus
These devices, noble as they may be in the museum of mobile history, simply can’t run iOS 15.1 — the new minimum required to keep WhatsApp ticking. They’re maxed out at iOS 12.5.7, and unless Tim Cook pulls a miracle firmware patch (spoiler: he won’t), they’re officially out of the compatibility club.
Newer models — even the iPhone 6s and SE (2016) — are still in the game for now, provided you’ve updated to at least iOS 15.1. So before you panic-buy a new phone, make sure you’re not mistaken a 6s for a 6.
Why Is WhatsApp Dropping Support for These Devices?
Let’s be honest: tech companies don’t just wake up and decide to ruin your day. There’s a method to the madness. In this case, WhatsApp is phasing out older iPhones so it can fully lean into the latest iOS features, improved security frameworks, and performance upgrades — the kind of stuff older models simply can’t handle.
Think of it like trying to run a 2025 racing game on a Nokia 3310 — it’s not going to happen. WhatsApp’s newer tools, like advanced encryption and multimedia upgrades, demand more processing power and up-to-date system APIs. Continuing to support outdated hardware means holding back innovation for everyone else.
And then there’s the security side. Older iOS versions don’t get regular patches anymore, which makes them a juicy target for cyberattacks. WhatsApp would rather not play host to that party.
How to Check If Your iPhone Is Affected
Here’s your quick litmus test for WhatsApp survival: check your iOS version. Not sure where to look? No problem. Open your Settings app, go to General, then tap About. Look for the iOS version number.
- If you see iOS 15.1 or higher, you’re safe.
- If it says iOS 12.5.7, and you own an iPhone 5s, 6, or 6 Plus — well, that’s the end of the WhatsApp road for your device.
Not seeing the option to upgrade? That’s not a glitch — it’s Apple’s way of saying your device has hit the software ceiling.
Can You Still Use WhatsApp on an Unsupported iPhone?
The good (and slightly sneaky) news is that WhatsApp won’t just vanish in a puff of smoke at midnight on May 5. You’ll likely still be able to open the app, send messages, and receive them for a little while. But over time, things will start to break. New features won’t appear. Security will lag. And at some point, the app may simply refuse to connect.
In other words, even if it doesn’t stop working immediately, using WhatsApp on an unsupported device will feel like trying to stream Netflix on a dial-up modem — frustrating, insecure, and ultimately unsustainable.
Also Read: Is the Redmi Turbo 4 Pro the Ultimate Mid-Range Flagship Killer of 2025?
What Should You Do If Your iPhone Is on the List?
If you’re still hanging on to an iPhone 5s or 6 like it’s a beloved family heirloom, it’s time to think strategy.
- Backup your chats — now. Go to WhatsApp Settings > Chats > Chat Backup. Make sure everything’s safe in iCloud.
- Start planning for a new phone. You don’t need the latest iPhone 15 Pro Max (unless you’re feeling fancy), but even an iPhone 8 or SE (2020) running iOS 15+ will keep you in WhatsApp’s good graces.
- Transfer your data — once you have a new device, restoring your WhatsApp account is fairly straightforward. Log in with your number, and the app will prompt you to restore from iCloud.
The sooner you switch, the smoother the transition. And hey, maybe it’s time to retire that cracked screen and one-hour battery life anyway?
Android Users: Should You Be Worried Too?
Don’t worry, Android squad — you’re not getting ghosted. As of now, WhatsApp still supports Android 5.0 (Lollipop) and up. So unless you’re rocking a relic from 2014, you’re safe.
That said, WhatsApp does occasionally bump up minimum Android requirements too, so it’s wise to keep your device updated and your storage clear. You never know when the next cutoff memo might drop.
Final Thoughts: Time to Upgrade or Wait and See?
If your iPhone is stuck below iOS 15.1, this isn’t a drill. WhatsApp will start phasing you out, and there’s no turning back. Holding off won’t buy you much time — and let’s face it, using an outdated phone in 2025 is already like texting with a potato.
But if you’re running a newer iPhone and can upgrade your iOS, you’re in the clear — no action needed, other than patting yourself on the back for good tech hygiene.
So, should you upgrade now? If you’re on the list — absolutely. Not just for WhatsApp, but for security, functionality, and overall peace of mind. The digital world moves fast, and in this case, lagging could leave you unread.
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