WhatsApp has officially ended support for a range of older Android and iPhone models starting from June 6, 2025. The popular messaging app requires users to have more recent versions of their operating systems to continue using its features without interruption.
Which phones are affected?
Devices running versions older than Android 5.1 or iOS 15.1 will no longer be compatible with WhatsApp. This decision affects several aging smartphone models that can no longer receive the necessary updates from their manufacturers.
If your phone cannot be updated to meet these system requirements, WhatsApp will stop functioning on your device, including messaging, voice calls, and access to your chat history.
Why this update matters
As WhatsApp introduces new features, end-to-end encryption protocols, and improved security measures, older devices are no longer able to support these advancements. To ensure user privacy and data protection, WhatsApp periodically updates its list of supported devices.
How to check if your device is impacted
- On Android: Go to Settings > About phone > Software information to see your current Android version.
- On iPhone: Go to Settings > General > About to find your iOS version.
If your device runs on an unsupported version, consider backing up your data and transferring it to a newer model that meets the compatibility criteria.
What to do if your phone is no longer supported
- Back up your WhatsApp chats using Google Drive or iCloud to avoid losing messages and media.
- Switch to a compatible smartphone that supports Android 5.1 or higher, or iOS 15.1 or later.
- Install WhatsApp on the new device and restore your chat history during setup.
Popular affordable smartphones compatible with WhatsApp
- Samsung Galaxy A14 – Budget-friendly with Android 13 support.
- Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 – Excellent value with reliable updates.
- Motorola G73 – Clean interface and solid performance.
- iPhone SE (2022) – Compact Apple device with iOS 17 compatibility.
Stay updated to stay connected
To keep using WhatsApp safely and without interruptions, it’s important to stay on a supported device. This ensures access to the latest features, performance improvements, and security patches.
If your current phone no longer meets the requirements, now is the time to consider an upgrade. Make sure to back up your data and choose a device that will remain compatible with WhatsApp updates in the coming years.
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