With over 2 billion active users globally, WhatsApp remains one of the most popular mobile messaging apps in the world. But come May 2025, a wave of iPhone and Android users with outdated devices will lose access to the service — unless they update or upgrade their smartphones.

Why Is WhatsApp Ending Support for Older Devices?

Meta, the parent company of WhatsApp, regularly rolls out updates to boost security, fix bugs, and introduce new features — including AI tools and enhanced voice messaging capabilities.

While these improvements help keep WhatsApp competitive and modern, they come at a cost: older operating systems can’t keep up. As a result, WhatsApp (including WhatsApp Business) will soon be incompatible with several legacy iOS and Android devices.

image.png

WhatsApp Will No Longer Work on These Devices Starting May 5, 2025

According to Meta, the app will stop functioning on certain smartphones as of May 5, 2025, due to major system updates.

iPhones Losing WhatsApp Support:

Any device running iOS versions below 15.1 will no longer be supported. While some iPhones can update to newer iOS versions, others — like the iPhone 5s or iPhone 6 — are stuck on iOS 12.5.7 and are now officially incompatible.

Android Phones Being Dropped:

As of January 1, 2025, WhatsApp had already stopped supporting Android 4.4 (KitKat). The new wave of cuts will now affect all devices running Android 4.4 or lower. That means phones that can’t update beyond that point will lose access.

Users with brands like Samsung, LG, Sony, and HTC may still be able to use WhatsApp if their phones support a newer OS. However, many older models no longer receive official updates, and trying to force upgrades via custom ROMs could result in permanent device issues or lockouts.

Full List of Phones That Will No Longer Support WhatsApp in May 2025

🟠 Android Devices Losing Support:

  • HTC: One X, One X+, Desire 500, Desire 601
  • LG: Optimus G, Nexus 4, G2 Mini, L90
  • Motorola: Moto G (1st Gen), Razr HD, Moto E (2014)
  • Sony: Xperia Z, Xperia SP, Xperia T, Xperia V
  • Samsung: Galaxy S3, Galaxy Note 2, Galaxy Ace 3, Galaxy S4 Mini

🔵 iPhones Losing Support:

  • iPhone 5s
  • iPhone 6
  • iPhone 6 Plus
image-1.png

What Can You Do If You’re Affected?

If your phone is on the list, you’ll need to update your OS (if possible) or switch to a newer device to continue using WhatsApp securely. Ignoring the update could leave you locked out of chats, unable to send messages, or vulnerable to security risks.

Are you affected by these changes?
Let us know in the comments — and don’t forget to bookmark this page for more updates on WhatsApp and mobile tech news.