Starting May 2025, WhatsApp will no longer function on several older iPhone models, as the platform phases out support for outdated iOS versions. This move is part of the company’s ongoing effort to enhance user safety and improve app functionality across devices.
According to WhatsApp, iPhones running on iOS 15.1 or earlier will no longer be compatible with the app. While WhatsApp has supported devices on iOS 12 and newer until now, this upcoming policy change significantly tightens the requirements. Models like the iPhone 5s, iPhone 6, and iPhone 6 Plus will be among those affected.
🔐 Why Is WhatsApp Ending Support for Older iPhones?
The main reason behind this decision is security. Apple has already ceased software updates for these older iOS versions, which increases the risk of vulnerabilities and cyber threats. Without regular updates, users become more susceptible to data breaches and malware attacks. WhatsApp recommends upgrading to newer iPhones or ensuring your current device is running the latest iOS version to maintain uninterrupted access.
🛡️ New WhatsApp Privacy and Security Features
Over the past few months, WhatsApp has rolled out several advanced privacy tools, including:
- Enhanced Privacy Protection: Prevents others from easily copying content like text, photos, and videos from chats or groups.
- Chat Lock: Secure sensitive conversations with password, Face ID, or fingerprint authentication.
- Disappearing Messages: Auto-delete messages after a chosen time frame to maintain privacy.
- Silence Unknown Callers: Automatically blocks incoming calls from numbers not in your contact list.
- Privacy Checkup Tool: A guided feature that helps users understand and customize their privacy settings quickly.
However, these features may not perform optimally—or may not be available at all—on older devices that lack the hardware capabilities required.
📲 Time to Upgrade?
As iOS 15 is now several versions behind, users with outdated iPhones may find themselves increasingly locked out of major apps and security updates. For a seamless experience, WhatsApp suggests switching to devices like the iPhone 13 or iPhone 14, which support the latest iOS releases and feature complete compatibility with WhatsApp’s new tools.