WhatsApp has announced it will stop supporting older iPhone models beginning June 1, 2025, as part of its routine compatibility updates. This change targets iPhones running on iOS versions earlier than 15.1, including the iPhone 5s, iPhone 6, and iPhone 6 Plus—devices already labeled “obsolete” by Apple and no longer eligible for updates or repairs.
The platform, owned by Meta, said this move is part of its commitment to improving user safety and adapting to modern technological standards.
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Without frequent security updates, older devices become susceptible to cyber threats. WhatsApp noted that older systems might also lack the necessary capabilities to support new features.
This decision affects not only regular users but also those using WhatsApp Business. Business owners with unsupported devices will need to upgrade their phones to continue operations without disruption.
Currently, the oldest compatible models after the cutoff will be the iPhone 8 and iPhone X, although these too are approaching the end of their software update cycles. WhatsApp underlined that supporting up-to-date operating systems is essential for rolling out privacy-focused features like disappearing messages, chat locks, and anti-screenshot tools.
Experts see this as part of a broader tech industry shift toward phasing out legacy support in favor of innovation and enhanced cybersecurity. Users who don’t upgrade risk losing access to their chats and media permanently.
