WhatsApp To Stop Working On Older Phones May 2025
Millions of Nigerians may lose access to WhatsApp as the messaging platform prepares to phase out support for older smartphones starting May 5, 2025.
Meta, the parent company of WhatsApp, announced that the move is aimed at improving app performance and ensuring users’ data security.
The company said older devices no longer meet the required security and performance standards needed to run the app effectively.
“As technology advances, phasing out support for older hardware is necessary to maintain app functionality and security,” Meta stated.
The development will affect both individual users and small businesses that rely on WhatsApp Business.
WhatsApp will no longer function on iPhones running iOS versions below 15.1. Affected models include iPhone 5s, iPhone 6, and iPhone 6 Plus.
These devices cannot upgrade beyond iOS 12.5.7 and will therefore be incompatible.
This follows WhatsApp’s earlier move to end support for Android 4.4 (KitKat) as of 1st January, 2025.
Among Android devices set to lose access are:
Samsung: Galaxy S3, Note 2, Ace 3, S4 Mini
Motorola: Moto G (1st Gen), Moto E (2014), Razr HD
HTC: One X+, Desire 500, Desire 601
LG: Optimus G, L90
Nexus 4
Sony: Xperia Z, SP, T, V
According to Meta, “As technology advances, phasing out support for older hardware is necessary to maintain app functionality and security.”
Users are advised to upgrade to devices running at least iOS 15.1 or Android 5.0 (Lollipop).
Additionally, Meta recommends backing up chat histories before switching to a new device to avoid losing important data.
Titilope Adako is a talented and intrepid journalist, dedicated to shedding light on the untold stories of Osun State and Nigeria. Through incisive reporting, she tackles a broad spectrum of topics, from politics and social justice to culture and entertainment, with a commitment to accuracy, empathy, and inspiring positive change.
