WhatsApp has confirmed that several older iPhone models will no longer support its services starting June 1, 2025. The update is part of WhatsApp’s routine review of operating system compatibility, aimed at reinforcing security and ensuring a seamless experience for users.
The discontinuation will affect iPhones operating on iOS versions below 15.1. Specifically, this includes the iPhone 5s, iPhone 6, and iPhone 6 Plus — devices that have already been designated as obsolete by Apple and are no longer eligible for official updates or technical support.
WhatsApp cited evolving security standards and the need for advanced technical features as the primary reasons behind this decision. In its updated FAQ, the company explained, “We routinely assess the operating systems we support to align with modern security requirements and deliver the best possible user experience.”
WhatsApp Business Users Must Also Upgrade
This policy change also applies to the WhatsApp Business app. Business owners and professionals using these older models will need to transition to newer iPhones to maintain their communication channels and avoid disruptions.
The iPhone 8 and iPhone X will continue to be supported for now, though analysts caution that these models may face similar restrictions in the near future, given Apple’s own software lifecycle practices.
Strengthening Security for All Users
By removing support for outdated devices, WhatsApp aims to bolster security and introduce new features that depend on modern iOS frameworks. The app has recently expanded its suite of privacy tools, including options for disappearing chats and chat locks to better protect user data.
This move aligns with a broader trend in the tech industry, where maintaining compatibility with legacy hardware is increasingly seen as a barrier to innovation. Users are encouraged to migrate to newer devices to ensure uninterrupted access to their messages and media.
Failure to upgrade could lead to the complete loss of existing chats and files within WhatsApp, impacting both personal and professional communications.
