WhatsApp Ceases Support For iPhone 6, Galaxy S4, And 11 Other Phone Models.
WhatsApp, the globally popular messaging platform owned by Meta, has officially discontinued support for several older smartphone models, including the iPhone 6, Samsung Galaxy S4, and 11 other devices, effective from 1 June 2025. The decision, which affects devices unable to run iOS 15.1 or Android 5.1 and later, stems from the app’s updated system requirements aimed at enhancing security and performance.
According to reports from Tribune Online and Premium Times, the move impacts a range of devices released around 2013 and 2014, including the iPhone 5s, iPhone 6, iPhone 6 Plus, Samsung Galaxy Note 3, Sony Xperia Z1, LG G2, Huawei Ascend P6, Moto G (1st generation), Motorola Razr HD, and Moto E (2014). These models, deemed obsolete by their manufacturers, can no longer support the latest operating system updates required for WhatsApp’s functionality.
The phase-out was initially slated for 5 May 2025 but was delayed to give users additional time to prepare. WhatsApp notified affected users through in-app alerts, advising them to back up their chats and upgrade to newer devices to continue using the service. For iPhone users, devices like the iPhone 6s, 6s Plus, and first-generation iPhone SE remain compatible, provided they are updated to iOS 15.8.4. Android users can verify their device’s compatibility by checking Settings > About Phone to confirm they are running Android 5.1 or higher.
This development has sparked varied reactions. Posts on X highlighted user frustration, with some lamenting the need to upgrade devices still functional for basic tasks. Others praised WhatsApp’s focus on security, noting that outdated operating systems pose risks due to unpatched vulnerabilities. Apple has classified the affected iPhone models as “obsolete,” halting repairs and software updates, which further complicates continued use of apps like WhatsApp, Spotify, and Instagram on these devices.
For those affected, WhatsApp recommends backing up chats via Settings > Chats > Backup to preserve conversations before transitioning to a compatible device. Budget-friendly options, such as the iPhone SE (2nd or 3rd generation) or mid-range Android models, have been suggested as viable upgrades. Alternatively, users may explore other messaging apps like Telegram or Signal, which may still support older devices, though their user bases are smaller.
As WhatsApp continues to evolve, this update underscores the rapid pace of technological advancement and the challenges faced by users of legacy devices. The company’s commitment to maintaining a secure platform may prompt more users to upgrade, ensuring seamless access to one of the world’s most widely used communication tools.
