WhatsApp to end support for older Android, iPhone devices

Meta announced that WhatsApp will no longer support many Android and iPhone devices running outdated operating systems, emphasizing the need to update to continue using the app.

The decision affects devices running operating systems older than iOS 12, such as the iPhone 6, iPhone 6 Plus, and iPhone 5s, as well as those running Android 5.0 (Lollipop) or earlier versions.

To prevent data loss, Meta advises users to back up their chats via Google Drive or iCloud, allowing them to restore their data after updating their system.

Users who do not update their devices will be unable to send or receive messages on WhatsApp until they update their operating system and complete the backup process.

WhatsApp is expected to stop functioning on these devices starting May 5, 2025, potentially impacting millions of users who still rely on older phones.