For users still holding onto their vintage smartphones, a crucial update is on the horizon: WhatsApp, the ubiquitous messaging application, will cease support for several older devices starting May 5, 2025. This change is due to evolving compatibility requirements with outdated operating systems.

Meta, the parent company of WhatsApp, explained the decision as part of their ongoing efforts to "ensure the app stays secure and functional while working with newer phones." While the vast majority of WhatsApp users will remain unaffected, a small segment still utilizing devices over a decade old may find themselves unable to access the popular messaging service.

If you've been diligently keeping an older phone running, it's prudent to verify if your device is among those losing support.

Apple Devices Losing WhatsApp Compatibility:

The upcoming deadline primarily impacts iPhones running iOS versions earlier than 15.1. Specifically, the following iPhone models will no longer be supported:

 * iPhone 5s

 * iPhone 6

 * iPhone 6 Plus

While some older iPhone models can be updated to meet WhatsApp's new minimum requirement, these particular devices have a maximum upgrade capability of iOS 12.5.7, which is no longer compatible with the latest versions of WhatsApp. These iPhone models were originally released in 2013 and 2014.

Android Devices Already Affected:

The first wave of WhatsApp incompatibility occurred on January 1, 2025, when the app officially dropped support for Android's KitKat OS (version 4.4) and all older iterations. While a small number of devices originally running KitKat might have received subsequent system updates, many older models no longer receive updates from their respective manufacturers.

The list of Android devices that have already lost WhatsApp support includes:

Samsung:

 * Galaxy S3

 * Galaxy Note 2

 * Galaxy Ace 3

 * Galaxy S4 Mini

Motorola:

 * Moto G (1st Gen)

 * Razr HD

 * Moto E 2014

HTC:

 * One X

 * One X+

 * Desire 500

 * Desire 601

LG:

 * Optimus G

 * Nexus 4

 * G2 Mini

 * L90

Sony:

 * Xperia Z

 * Xperia SP

 * Xperia T

 * Xperia V

It's important to note that both the standard WhatsApp application and the WhatsApp Business app are subject to these changes, as they share the same underlying system requirements.

Determining Your Device's Compatibility:

If your iPhone is running iOS 15 or a later version, or if your Android device is operating on Android 5.0 (Lollipop) or a more recent version, your WhatsApp service will continue uninterrupted, and you will continue to receive new features and updates. However, if your device hasn't been updated in several years or if you suspect it might be on the cusp of incompatibility, it's crucial to verify its software version before the May deadline.

Steps to Take If Your Phone is Affected:

If you discover that your phone is on the list of unsupported devices, here are essential steps to take:

1. Prioritize Backing Up Your Chats: Before making any changes to your device, ensure your valuable conversations are saved. Utilize Google Drive for Android devices or iCloud for iPhones to create a backup of your WhatsApp chats. This will allow you to seamlessly restore your chat history on a new, compatible device.

2. Check for Potential Software Updates: Your current phone might still have the capability to upgrade to a supported operating system. Navigate to your device's settings menu and check for any available software updates. If an update to a compatible OS (iOS 15 or later for iPhones, Android 5.0 or later for Android) is available, installing it will resolve the WhatsApp incompatibility issue.

3. Consider a Device Upgrade: If your device cannot be updated to a compatible operating system, it might be time to consider upgrading to a newer smartphone. While parting with a familiar device can be sentimental, numerous budget-friendly smartphones on the market fully support the latest versions of WhatsApp and will ensure continued connectivity without significant financial strain.