Popular messaging apps WhatsApp and WhatsApp Business will cease functioning on certain older smartphones beginning May 5, 2025.
This change occurs as parent company Meta phases out support for devices that cannot meet the platform’s updated system requirements.
This decision, according to Meta, stems from a commitment to enhancing application security. It also aims to ensure smooth performance on modern hardware and software configurations.
By focusing development efforts primarily on newer technologies, the company intends to maintain the platform’s overall efficiency and better safeguard user data.
The change will predominantly impact users with significantly older devices. This is especially true for those phones released over a decade ago.
While the transition period allows ample time, users of potentially affected phones are advised to begin planning accordingly to avoid service disruption.
Regarding specific requirements based on the information provided: For Apple Devices, WhatsApp will necessitate iOS 15.1 or later.
Consequently, any iPhone model that cannot be updated to iOS 15.1 or a newer version will lose support. (Please note: The original text provided began listing specific models but was incomplete).
Information regarding specific minimum requirements or affected models for Android devices was not included in the source text provided.
Users with Android devices are therefore encouraged to seek out official compatibility information specific to their platform.
Users currently operating older smartphones should take the step of checking their device’s operating system version.
If your device cannot update to the required minimum OS version (like iOS 15.1 for iPhones), you will need to upgrade to a newer compatible device before the May 5, 2025 deadline. This action is necessary to continue using WhatsApp and WhatsApp Business without interruption.
