Starting May 5, 2025, the messaging app will no longer support the iPhone 5s, iPhone 6, and iPhone 6 Plus. And that’s because these devices, running on iOS 12.5.7, can’t upgrade to iOS 15.1—the new minimum requirement for WhatsApp to function.
This change marks the end of the road for some of Apple’s most iconic devices. The iPhone 6 and 6 Plus alone sold over 222 million units, making them Apple’s best-selling iPhones and the world’s third best-selling phones ever. While they were groundbreaking at the time, WhatsApp says the limitations of their hardware and software no longer align with the app’s push for innovation.
By requiring iOS 15.1 or newer, WhatsApp aims to streamline updates, deliver advanced features, and eliminate the complexities of supporting outdated systems. This shift also reflects broader trends in tech, where companies are prioritizing newer technologies to enhance performance. According to WABetaInfo, WhatsApp’s data shows that fewer users rely on these older devices, making the decision both practical and forward-looking.
For those still holding onto these legacy iPhones, WhatsApp has provided a five-month notice to prepare for the transition. Affected users can back up their chats to iCloud and transfer their history to a newer device using WhatsApp’s Chat Transfer feature.
To back up your chats, simply go to Settings > Chats > Chat Backup, and tap Back Up Now. When setting up WhatsApp on your new iPhone, follow the prompts to restore your chat history.
Additionally, it’s important to note that this update only impacts iOS users—Android devices remain unaffected. However, this decision raises questions about how long older Android models will continue to receive support as apps evolve to leverage more powerful hardware.
Ultimately, WhatsApp’s move underscores how quickly the tech world advances. For users of the iPhone 5s, 6, and 6 Plus, the countdown has begun—not just for WhatsApp access, but for staying connected in a fast-paced digital landscape.
(Techloy)
