WhatsApp Shuts Down on iPhone 6, Galaxy S4, and 11 Other Devices as Support Ends for Older Phones
WhatsApp has officially stopped working on 13 older smartphones, including iPhone 6 and Galaxy S4, as Meta enforces stricter system requirements to boost app security and performance.
From June 1, 2025, users on outdated devices can no longer send messages or make calls, urging them to upgrade or switch to compatible alternatives for continued access.
WhatsApp has officially stopped working on 13 ageing smartphone models, including the popular iPhone 6 and Samsung Galaxy S4, following the app’s updated system requirements aimed at boosting security and functionality.
Effective June 1, 2025, the messaging giant, owned by Meta, pulled support for devices running outdated operating systems, meaning users on these phones can no longer send messages, make calls, or access the app. This change affects several legacy models, such as:
- iPhone 5s
- iPhone 6
- iPhone 6 Plus
- Samsung Galaxy S4
- Sony Xperia Z1
- And other similarly aged devices
Why WhatsApp pulled the plug
Meta says the move is part of its ongoing policy to retire support for outdated systems approximately every two years. This allows the platform to focus on improving security protocols, adding new features like enhanced encryption and advanced group tools, and ensuring optimal app performance.
“Older phones simply cannot keep up with the demands of modern app technology,” a Meta spokesperson explained. “Maintaining compatibility with these legacy systems limits our ability to innovate.”
Minimum requirements raised
To continue using WhatsApp, iPhones must now run iOS 15.1 or higher, while Android devices require at least Android 5.1 (Lollipop). Devices running versions below these thresholds are now blocked from logging into the app.
Users unsure of their device’s software version can verify it by going to:
- iPhone: Settings > General > About
- Android: Settings > About Phone > Software Version
What users should do
If your device is no longer supported, WhatsApp strongly recommends backing up your chat history and switching to a newer, compatible smartphone. In some cases, like the iPhone 6s, 6s Plus, and the first-gen iPhone SE, users can still run WhatsApp, but only if updated to at least iOS 15.8.4.
For those unable to upgrade, the company suggests considering alternative messaging platforms that still support older hardware.
The bigger picture
The app’s system purge was originally scheduled for May 5 but was postponed to June 1 to give users more time to prepare. Despite the delay, the update is now fully in effect, and non-compliant devices have lost access to WhatsApp functions entirely.
Looking ahead, Meta hinted that more devices may lose compatibility in 2027 as the platform continues to evolve. The company emphasized that proactive updates like this are necessary to maintain WhatsApp’s integrity and user experience.
