WhatsApp to Stop Working on These Older iPhones Starting June 1 – Full List Inside

Starting June 1, WhatsApp will officially stop working on several older-generation iPhones. The move comes as part of the platform’s strategy to align with updated system requirements and offer improved performance, features, and security.

WhatsApp’s New System Requirements for iOS and Android Devices

According to WABetaInfo, a trusted source for WhatsApp updates, the messaging app will now require iOS 15.1 or later to function on Apple devices. This change affects users whose iPhones cannot be updated to this version or higher.

On the Android front, WhatsApp has also confirmed that devices running Android version 5.0 or above will continue to be supported. Devices on older Android versions may no longer receive access to the app, updates, or services.

Why WhatsApp Is Ending Support for Older Devices

The decision to phase out support for older operating systems is not new. WhatsApp and its parent company Meta routinely discontinue support for legacy systems to ensure the app runs efficiently on modern devices.

According to WABetaInfo, maintaining support for outdated operating systems limits the ability to roll out new features and enhancements. By focusing on newer platforms, WhatsApp can implement better security, faster updates, and richer features.

WhatsApp Ends Support for These iPhones

Here are the iPhone models that are no longer compatible with WhatsApp as of June 1, 2025, because they cannot upgrade beyond iOS 12.5.7:

• iPhone 5s

• iPhone 6

• iPhone 6 Plus

These models are no longer eligible for updates that meet WhatsApp’s latest requirements, making them obsolete for using the app going forward.

Other iPhone Models Mentioned: Still Supported for Now

Some additional devices, including iPhone 6s, iPhone 6s Plus, and the first-generation iPhone SE, were also speculated to be affected. However, these models can still be updated to iOS 15.8.4, which meets WhatsApp’s minimum requirement.

As long as these devices are updated to that version, WhatsApp will continue to work on them, at least until any future support changes are announced.

How to Check If Your iPhone Will Still Support WhatsApp

If you're unsure about your iPhone’s iOS version, you can verify it easily by following these steps:

1. Open Settings on your iPhone

2. Tap on General

3. Select About

4. Look for the iOS version number listed

If your device is running iOS 15.1 or higher, you will be able to continue using WhatsApp. If not, and your device does not support an upgrade, you will need to consider switching to a supported iPhone model.

WhatsApp’s Transition Timeline and User Notice

WhatsApp initially planned to roll out this update on May 5, 2025, but the release was delayed to June 1. The company has provided users with a five-month notice period to prepare for the transition. This includes updating to a compatible iOS or Android version or migrating to a supported device.

Users on unsupported devices will see in-app notifications alerting them about the need to update their software or device. This proactive communication is intended to ensure minimal disruption for affected users.

What This Means for iPhone Users

If you're using any of the outdated iPhone models listed above, you won’t be able to send messages, make calls, or access your chats via WhatsApp after June 1. Backing up your data and migrating to a newer device is highly recommended.

Meta has emphasized that ending support for older iOS versions helps keep WhatsApp secure and efficient. Regular upgrades allow the platform to push features such as enhanced privacy settings, cross-device syncing, AI chat tools, and more.

Conclusion

With this latest update, WhatsApp joins other major apps in phasing out legacy device support. Users with older iPhones must now upgrade to a newer model or operating system to maintain access to one of the world’s most popular messaging platforms.