WhatsApp, the world’s most popular messaging app, is ending support for several older smartphones due to updated software requirements.
If you’re a regular WhatsApp user, this update is important for you. The Meta-owned platform has raised its minimum operating system requirements, meaning some older devices will no longer support WhatsApp.
Let’s look at which devices are affected and what you can do.
New Requirements for WhatsApp Compatibility
To continue using WhatsApp:
iPhone users must have iOS 15.1 or later
Android users must have Android 5.1 or later
Phones with older versions of these operating systems will lose access to messaging, voice calls, and other features on WhatsApp.
iPhones That Will No Longer Support WhatsApp
The following iPhones are no longer supported:
iPhone 5s
iPhone 6
iPhone 6 Plus
However, models like iPhone 6s, 6s Plus, and the first-generation iPhone SE can still support WhatsApp if updated.
Android Phones That Will Lose WhatsApp Access
If your phone runs Android 5.0 or earlier, WhatsApp will stop working. Some affected models include:
Samsung Galaxy S4
Samsung Galaxy Note 3
Sony Xperia Z1
LG G2
Huawei Ascend P6
Moto G (1st Gen)
HTC One X
How to Check Your Phone’s Operating System
For iPhones:
Go to Settings > General > About, and check your iOS version.
For Android phones:
Go to Settings > About Phone, and check your Android version.
Why WhatsApp Stops Supporting Older Phones
WhatsApp ends support for outdated devices as part of its regular system review. According to Meta, this helps:
Improve app performance and speed
Enhance security
Enable new features that older phones can’t support
They also note that devices with low usage or missing security updates are phased out to focus on better support for newer devices.
What You Should Do
To keep using WhatsApp without interruption, update your device’s software (if possible).
updates are no longer available for your phone, consider buying a new device that meets the latest system requirements.
