With the push toward improved performance and features, WhatsApp is gearing up for a major transition in April-May 2025. WhatsApp will end its services for several smartphone models that are running on incompatible operating systems. The choice was made to improve performance, enhance security, and provide a user experience that aligns with the app’s latest features.

This measure will mainly impact devices with older operating systems, while WhatsApp's new tools cannot run. The latest update of WhatsApp, which includes features like AI integration, a document scanner, and refreshed chat tools, will not be available on devices with older OS versions. WhatsApp may be unusable or highly unstable for users who still depend on older operating systems.

Which smartphones will no longer be WhatsApp?

The compatibility affects models from both Android manufacturers and Apple. In case of Apple devices, smartphone with iOS 15.1 or an earlier version will not be supported to use the app. The iPhone 5, iPhone 5s, iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 plus, launched between 2013 and 2014.

WhatsApp will no longer be supported on phones running versions older than Android 5.0. Affected Samsung models include the Galaxy S3, Note II, and S4 Mini, along with other brands like Motorola (Moto G 1st Gen, Moto E), LG (Optimus G, G2 Mini, Nexus 4), HTC (One X, Desire 500), and Sony (Xperia Z, Xperia T), among others.

How can you check if your device still supports WhatsApp?

Concerned about losing access, check your phone’s software version to see if it still works with WhatsApp. To check Android version, open setting, see about the system section or phone, and check the version number.

iPhone users can easily find their iOS version by opening Settings, tapping General, then selecting About. While the screen will show you the iOS version currently installed on your device. Your device isn’t updated to iOS 15.1 or Android 5.0 or newer, and WhatsApp may stop working on it as of April. The company Meta is pushing WhatsApp forward with tools that need stronger hardware and updated software. These devices are updated to enhance user privacy while improving the app’s overall performance.