Three emblematic models still widely sold in the reconditioned section are affected.
WhatsApp is preparing to turn over a new page. As is often the case, technological advances leave behind devices considered too old. From May 2025, some iPhones will no longer be able to use the famous messaging. An iOS update will be the cause of this break, forcing affected users to find an alternative or change their smartphone.
Indeed, from May 5, 2025, precisely, WhatsApp will only support devices running iOS 15.1 or later. Older models, unable to support this version of Apple’s operating system, will be excluded. The reason is simple: each iOS update introduces new features and enhanced security standards. Older versions become more vulnerable and no longer meet the technical requirements of modern applications.
For WhatsApp, maintaining compatibility with these outdated devices represents a costly headache. Between security, performance optimization and the development of new features, the choice is quickly made: we must move forward. This decision highlights a recurring problem in the digital world: planned obsolescence.
For owners of affected iPhones, this change means simply stopping their access to WhatsApp. They will no longer be able to send messages, make calls, retrieve their conversations on these devices, or download the application. The only solution: migrate to a newer iPhone or turn to other means of communication. Users loyal to these models will also have to worry about migrating their data. Fortunately, WhatsApp offers tools to backup and transfer chat history to a new device. So, which models are affected by this update? We are talking here about the iPhone 5S, 6 and 6 Plus.
These models, launched more than ten years ago, cannot be updated beyond iOS 12. It is therefore the end of an era for these mobiles which have marked the history of the brand the apple and the opportunity for you to add a new phone to the top of the list for your next birthday.