If you’re still holding on to an older iPhone, here’s something to keep on your radar WhatsApp will soon stop working on some models.
"Let’s be real - no one likes hearing their phone’s getting left behind. But WhatsApp is moving on, and here’s what that means (no tech speak, promise)."
What’s Actually Changing? Starting June 1, 2025, WhatsApp won’t work anymore on iPhones that do not support iOS 15.1 or later. The reason? Older iPhones cannot handle the app’s newer features and security updates they are just not built for it.
Why? Because older iPhones just cannot keep up with WhatsApp’s newer features and security updates anymore.
iPhones That Will Lose Access to WhatsApp
If you’re using one of these, it’s time to start planning ahead:
- iPhone 5s
- iPhone 6
- iPhone 6 Plus
These models are several years old, and unfortunately, they can’t be updated to iOS 15.1 - which is now WhatsApp’s minimum requirement.
Phones That Are Still Good (For Now)
Still using an older iPhone? Do not panic just yet. If your phone is updated to iOS 15.1 or later, you are good to go. Here is a quick list of models that are safe: - iPhone 6s / 6s Plus - iPhone SE (1st Gen) - iPhone 7 and anything newer (Yes, that includes iPhone X, 11, 12, and so on)
Not sure what iOS you are on? Go to Settings → General → About and check the “Software Version.”
Why Is WhatsApp Doing This?
Honestly, it makes sense.
As phones get older, they stop getting security updates. WhatsApp wants to keep your messages safe, and it just can’t do that well on outdated systems. Plus, newer features simply don’t work on old software.
Think of it like this: Would you expect a 2014 car to have built-in 5G and autopilot? Same idea here.
What You Can Do If You’re Affected
- Check for any updates
- Go to Settings → General → Software Update
- If there’s an iOS update available, install it. That might fix the problem.
- Back up your chats ASAP
- In WhatsApp, go to Settings → Chats → Chat Backup
- Backing up now means you won’t lose conversations if you switch devices.
- Consider upgrading
- If your phone can not be updated to iOS 15.1, you will need a newer iPhone to keep using WhatsApp.
- Move your chats to your new phone
- After setting up the new device, reinstall WhatsApp and restore your chat backup.
Quick Recap
Here is a simple breakdown:
| Will Stop Working | Still Supported (iOS 15.1+) |
| iPhone 5s | iPhone 6s / 6s Plus |
| iPhone 6 | iPhone SE (1st Gen) |
| iPhone 6 Plus | iPhone 7 and up |
Final Thoughts
Yes, it is irritating when apps stop working on older phones. But this is about keeping things secure and running smoothly.
If your phones on the outdated list, now’s a good time to back up your chats and think about your next steps. And hey if you’ve been meaning to upgrade anyway, maybe this is your sign.