If you’re still using an older iPhone, you might want to double-check your device before May 5. WhatsApp, one of the world’s most widely used messaging apps with over two billion users globally, is ending support for three once-popular Apple smartphones — meaning millions could soon find themselves locked out of their messages.
The app will stop working on the iPhone 5s, iPhone 6, and iPhone 6 Plus, as these devices are unable to update to iOS 15.1, the minimum required software for WhatsApp’s next major update.
From May 5 onward, WhatsApp will only function on iPhones running iOS 15.1 or newer. If your phone can’t be updated to that version, the app will no longer launch, and you won’t be able to send or receive messages.
Why Is WhatsApp Doing This?
A WhatsApp spokesperson explained the decision:
“Every year we look at which devices and software are the oldest and have the fewest users. These devices also might not have the latest security updates or might lack the functionality required to run WhatsApp.”
While this is a routine part of WhatsApp’s efforts to maintain security and performance, it still comes as disappointing news to fans of the older devices.
A Look at the Affected Devices
All three affected iPhone models were released over a decade ago and were officially discontinued by Apple in 2016. They were also placed on Apple’s “obsolete products” list, which means Apple no longer provides hardware services or updates for them.
-
iPhone 5s: Released in 2013
-
iPhone 6: Released in 2014
-
iPhone 6 Plus: Also released in 2014
Many apps including Spotify and Instagram already stopped supporting these devices, and now WhatsApp joins that list.
What You Can Do Now
If you’re unsure what version of iOS your device is running, here’s how to check:
-
Open the Settings app.
-
Tap General.
-
Select About.
-
Look for the number next to Version — this tells you your current iOS version.
If you’re using a newer iPhone and just haven’t updated in a while, head back to General and tap Software Update to install the latest iOS version. If iOS 15.1 or newer is available, tap Install Now to keep using WhatsApp without interruptions.
To avoid future surprises, you can also enable automatic updates by selecting Automatic Updates on the same Software Update page.
A New Update That Has People Talking
This news comes on the heels of another recent WhatsApp change that sparked backlash. The company quietly rolled out a new blue circle icon in the bottom-right corner of users’ chat screens.
That circle? It’s a shortcut to Meta AI, the tech giant’s built-in chatbot meant to answer questions, brainstorm ideas, and offer help.
But not everyone was thrilled. Many users took to X (formerly Twitter) to express frustration.
One user wrote: “Okay, how do I get rid of Meta AI in WhatsApp? The button is constantly hovering in the way and I will never ever use it.”
Another joked: “Massive ‘ask AI’ button WhatsApp omg just leave me alone man.”
According to Meta, the AI integration is optional — but its sudden appearance and placement have ruffled feathers, especially among those who prefer a simpler, distraction-free interface.
The Bottom Line
If you’re still using an iPhone 5s, iPhone 6, or iPhone 6 Plus, your time with WhatsApp is coming to an end — unless you upgrade to a newer model that supports iOS 15.1 or later. For everyone else, a quick software check and update will keep your messages flowing smoothly.
Are you using one of the affected phones, or are you ready for WhatsApp’s next update?