If you rely on WhatsApp for everyday communication, it’s time to check your phone’s software version. Starting June 1, 2025, WhatsApp will no longer function on a range of older iPhone and Android devices, as part of an updated compatibility policy announced by Meta, the app’s parent company. This means that millions of users with outdated operating systems may soon find themselves unable to send or receive messages on the platform.
This move follows a slight delay from the original WhatsApp phase-out schedule, which was initially set for May 5, 2025. The new enforcement date gives affected users just a little more time to update their devices or switch to newer models.
WhatsApp’s Minimum System Requirements as of June 2025
To continue using WhatsApp without interruption beyond June 1, 2025, your device must meet the following software criteria:
- iPhone users: Your device must be running at least iOS 15.1 or newer.
- Android users: Your device must be on Android 5.1 (Lollipop) or higher.
Devices that are unable to upgrade to these operating system versions will lose WhatsApp support entirely. Users on unsupported devices will no longer be able to open WhatsApp, send or receive messages, or access their chat history through the app.
iPhones That Will No Longer Support WhatsApp
A number of older iPhone models are directly affected by this new update. Most notably, users with the following Apple devices will no longer be able to use WhatsApp starting June 1, 2025:
- iPhone 5s
- iPhone 6
- iPhone 6 Plus
These models are incompatible with iOS 15.1 or later, which is now the minimum required version to run WhatsApp. Since Apple no longer supports software updates beyond certain versions for these devices, users are essentially locked out of future WhatsApp compatibility.
iPhone 6s and iPhone 6s Plus: Still Supported (for Now)
There has been some confusion regarding the status of iPhone 6s and iPhone 6s Plus, as both models support iOS versions up to 15.8.4 — technically meeting WhatsApp’s minimum OS requirement. According to Kenyans.co.ke, these devices will continue to support WhatsApp as long as users have installed the latest available iOS update.
However, this is likely a temporary reprieve. Given that the iPhone 6s series was released in 2015, Meta may choose to end support for these models in the near future. Users are advised to prepare for future changes, as support for these older models could be withdrawn within the next 12 to 24 months.
Android Devices Affected by the June 2025 WhatsApp Phase-Out
For Android users, the criteria are a bit more straightforward. Any phone that cannot be updated beyond Android 5.0 (Lollipop) will no longer support WhatsApp.
Meta has not released a comprehensive list of specific Android phone models affected by the new policy. However, it is safe to assume that several outdated models from brands like Samsung, LG, Sony, HTC, and Huawei — especially those released before 2015 — may fall into this category.
If you are using a budget or entry-level Android phone, it’s worth checking whether your device is eligible for an update to at least Android 5.1. If not, you risk losing access to WhatsApp entirely after June 1.
How to Check Your Phone’s Compatibility
To avoid being caught off guard by the WhatsApp June 2025 update, it’s crucial to verify your phone’s operating system. Here’s how:
For iPhone Users:
- Go to Settings
- Tap General
- Tap About
- Look for Software Version
If your iOS version is 15.1 or higher, your iPhone is safe — at least for now.
For Android Users:
- Go to Settings
- Tap About Phone
- Look for Android Version
If your Android version is 5.1 or higher, you’ll be able to continue using WhatsApp normally after June 1.
If your device is not eligible for a software update, your only option will be to purchase a newer smartphone model that meets the minimum requirements.
Why Is WhatsApp Ending Support for Older Devices?
WhatsApp periodically phases out support for older devices to ensure that the app remains secure, functional, and compatible with the latest technology. Supporting outdated operating systems can limit new feature rollouts and expose the app to security vulnerabilities.
By focusing on newer operating systems, WhatsApp can:
- Introduce enhanced privacy features
- Improve app performance and speed
- Offer better integration with other Meta services like Instagram and Facebook Messenger
- Ensure users have access to the latest messaging tools
While this update only affects a small percentage of WhatsApp’s global user base (which currently exceeds 3 billion monthly active users), it will inconvenience those still using older phones — particularly in regions where device upgrades are less common or more costly.
What Should Affected Users Do?
If your device is on the list of unsupported phones or cannot update to the required OS version, here’s what you can do:
- Backup your WhatsApp data: Before June 1, go to WhatsApp Settings > Chats > Chat Backup, and make sure you save all your conversations to iCloud (iPhones) or Google Drive (Android).
- Upgrade your phone: If an update is unavailable, consider buying a device that supports at least iOS 15.1 or Android 5.1.
- Transfer your data to the new device: Once you have a compatible phone, you can easily transfer your WhatsApp account and chats during the initial setup process.
Final Thoughts
The WhatsApp June 2025 update marks another step toward modernizing one of the world’s most popular messaging apps. While most users won’t be affected, it’s still important to stay informed and prepared. Older iPhones like the 5s, 6, and 6 Plus, and Android phones that can’t upgrade past Android 5.0, will lose WhatsApp access permanently.
Whether you use WhatsApp for work, socializing, or staying in touch with family, make sure your device meets the minimum compatibility requirements to avoid any service disruptions.
Stay ahead of the change — and consider this a good opportunity to upgrade your mobile experience in 2025.