WhatsApp Will Stop Working On These iPhones: Check the Full List
Meta’s WhatsApp is reportedly ending support for older iPhone models, as a part of its regular process. From July 29, 2025, iPhones like theiPhone 5s, iPhone 6, and iPhone 6 Pluswon’t be able to use WhatsApp anymore.
If you’re wondering why that is, it’s becauseWhatsApp will no longer be compatible with iOS versions earlier than 15.1. Notably, WhatsApp was kept compatible across the entire range of iPhones for years purely because it’s immensely popular with over 3 billion users worldwide, meaning people with a variety of devices were accessing the messaging platform.
However, as WhatsApp evolves towardadvanced features— from plain text messaging to incorporatingMeta AI,voice notes,reverse image search, and more — it becomes technically challenging to implement all of those while still supporting decade-old models. Newer versions of iOS include updated APIs and improved technologies required by WhatsApp to deliver these new features.
Currently, WhatsApp supports iOS 12 or later. However, a report from WaBetaInfo indicates a future update will require iOS 15.1 or newer to work properly.WhatsApp has given users a five-month grace period until July 24, 2025, which is enough time to upgrade their device or switch to an alternate platform if required.
This change applies to both WhatsApp and WhatsApp Business apps as they use the same underlying code and API requirements. Since WhatsApp has dedicated desktop apps for both Mac and Windows, you can also use it on those devices if you have any.
So if you’re on an iOS version older than iOS 15.1, you may check for software updates inSettings>General>Software Updateand update to a more recent version. If your iPhone is losing support, i.e., the iPhone 5s, iPhone 6, and iPhone 6 Plus, you may want to upgrade to a newer model that is currently supported. But don’t worry, there’s still enough time.
Ritik Singh
With over 7 years of experience in tech, Ritik currently heads content at Techwiser.com. His journey started by sharing knowledge and helping others in online communities. That passion soon turned into a career in tech journalism, backed by a formal education in Electronic Media. He’s held editorial roles at GadgetsToUse and PC-Tablet, and has contributed to popular publications like HowToGeek and TheWindowsClub. With over 2,000 how-tos, reviews, and in-depth guides under his belt, Ritik has helped millions of readers get more out of their tech—from smartphones to smart homes.
