Beginning on May 1, WhatsApp will no longer function on these 18 Android and iPhone devices
WhatsApp will no longer work with 18 Android and iPhone phone models as of May 5, 2025. These are phones that, although previously flagships, can no longer meet current technical requirements.
WhatsApp's decision is not arbitrary, as the affected devices no longer receive security updates or technical support from their manufacturers, posing a risk to personal data and the overall stability of the app.
The update, which will be released in May, requires phones running at least Android 5.0 or iOS 15.1. Phones that do not have access to these versions will not be able to use WhatsApp, even if they reinstall or manually update the app.
Technological advancements require apps to adopt new security measures, artificial intelligence features, and options such as digital payments, which require devices with greater processing power. Older phones can no longer keep up with this pace.
For affected users, the first step is to back up all their WhatsApp data. The app allows you to create cloud backups, which is vital for preserving your chats, photos, and documents when switching devices.
After making a backup, it's best to look for a new phone. There's no need to buy the latest or most expensive model; there are affordable or used options that perfectly meet the versions WhatsApp requires.
These are the 18 phones that will lose access to WhatsApp starting in May:
Apple phones:
iPhone 5
iPhone 5c
iPhone 5s
iPhone 6
iPhone 6 Plus
Samsung phones:
Galaxy S3
Galaxy S4 Mini
Galaxy Note 2
Motorola phones:
Moto G
Moto E (2014)
Razer HD
Sony phones:
Xperia Z
Xperia SP
Xperia T
Xperia V
LG phones:
Optimus G
Nexus 4
G2 Mini