WhatsApp announces end of support for older iPhones

WhatsApp, the world's most popular messaging app, has announced that it will stop supporting older versions of Apple's iOS operating system. As of October 24, 2025, the app will no longer work on devices running iOS 12 or earlier, directly affecting models like the iPhone 5 and iPhone 5c.

This decision is part of Meta’s ongoing policy to support only more recent operating systems, ensuring greater security, performance, and access to new features.

Which iPhones will be affected?

According to WhatsApp’s official statement, the following models will become incompatible:

• iPhone 5

• iPhone 5c

These devices are not compatible with versions beyond iOS 10 and therefore do not meet WhatsApp’s new minimum requirement of iOS 12.1 or higher.

Models like the iPhone 5s, iPhone 6, and iPhone 6 Plus, although also outdated, are still supported since they can run iOS up to version 12.5.7.

Why is WhatsApp ending support?

WhatsApp says that continuing support for outdated iOS versions poses technical and security challenges. Devices with outdated systems:

• Are more vulnerable to cyberattacks

• Have hardware limitations that prevent new features from working

• Represent a very small portion of active WhatsApp users

Meta emphasizes that each update requires features no longer available on older systems, making ongoing support unsustainable.

How to check your iOS version

If you're unsure of your iPhone's iOS version, follow these steps:

1. Open the Settings app

2. Go to General > About

3. Look for Software Version

If the number is lower than 12.1, your device may be affected. Check for available updates under:

Settings > General > Software Update

If no updates are available and your model is incompatible, you’ll need to consider replacing the device.

What happens if you keep using an unsupported iPhone?

After October 24, 2025, unsupported iPhones will no longer be able to send or receive messages on WhatsApp. Additionally:

• The app may fail to open properly

• Voice and video calls will stop working

• You won’t receive future updates or security patches

In short, WhatsApp will become unusable on these devices.

What can you do to continue using WhatsApp?

If you own one of the affected models and want to keep using WhatsApp, here are your options:

1. Upgrade to a newer iPhone

This is the most recommended option. A newer iPhone that supports iOS 12.1 or higher ensures full access to WhatsApp and future updates.

2. Switch to Android

Users switching to Android can use WhatsApp’s official chat migration tool to transfer their conversation history.

3. Back up your chats

Even if you don’t switch right away, you can back up your data on iCloud. That way, your chats can be restored on a new device later.

User impact

While the change affects a small number of users, it may have a significant impact in regions where upgrading devices is cost-prohibitive.

Tech experts point out that the decision is necessary for app evolution, as supporting outdated versions limits the development of new features and weakens system security.

What does Apple say?

Apple stopped providing updates for the iPhone 5 and 5c years ago. These devices no longer receive security patches, and Apple’s own recommendation is that users keep their devices updated.

WhatsApp’s decision aligns with Apple's policy of ending support for older iOS versions after a certain time.

Future WhatsApp updates

By ending support for legacy systems, WhatsApp aims to focus on performance improvements, security, and the introduction of AI-powered features. New features that may not work on old devices include:

• Voice message transcription

• Two-step verification enhancements

• AI-powered chat summaries

• Advanced end-to-end encryption

Conclusion

Ending support for older iPhones is a move by WhatsApp to enhance the overall user experience with better performance and security. While the decision may impact a minority of users, it's consistent with the evolution of technology and service quality.

Users with affected models should consider upgrading to avoid losing access to the platform.

Source: WhatsApp Help Center

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