### WhatsApp Discontinues Support for Older Smartphones: A Major Shift in Messaging WhatsApp has officially ceased support for a range of older smartphones as of June 1, 2025. This decision affects devices that are over a decade old, including popular models like the iPhone 5s, 6, and 6 Plus, as well as various Android devices. The move is part of WhatsApp's ongoing efforts to enhance security and performance by requiring more up-to-date operating systems. Users of these outdated devices will no longer be able to access the app, prompting many to consider upgrading their smartphones to continue using the service. This change is significant as it impacts a large number of users who rely on these older models for communication. ### Breakdown of the Changes and Affected Devices 1. **Affected Devices**: - iPhones: Models such as iPhone 5s, 6, and 6 Plus are no longer supported. - Android Phones: Devices running Android versions older than 5.1, including models like Samsung Galaxy S4 and Sony Xperia Z1, will also lose access to WhatsApp. 2. **New System Requirements**: - WhatsApp now requires iOS 15.1 or later for iPhones. - For Android devices, the minimum requirement is Android 5.1 or later. 3. **User Impact**: - Users of the affected devices will lose access to their chats and media unless they upgrade their operating systems or switch to newer devices. - WhatsApp has advised users to back up their chats and media to avoid data loss before the cutoff date. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **List of Affected Devices**: - **iPhones**: iPhone 5s, 6, 6 Plus [https://www.business-standard.com/technology/tech-news/whatsapp-will-not-work-on-older-generation-iphone-from-june-1-check-models-125060200275_1.html]. - **Android Devices**: Samsung Galaxy S4, Sony Xperia Z1, and others [https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/magazines/panache/whatsapp-shutting-down-permanently-on-these-iphones-and-android-devices-is-your-phone-on-the-list/articleshow/121546687.cms]. - **System Requirements**: - iOS: Must be 15.1 or later [https://www.devonlive.com/news/devon-news/whatsapp-stop-working-phones-month-10235810]. - Android: Must be 5.1 or later [https://www.moneycontrol.com/technology/these-iphones-are-losing-whatsapp-support-today-check-device-list-what-will-happen-to-your-chats-media-and-tips-to-save-themstarting-june-1-whatsapp-has-stopped-working-on-iphone-5s-6-and-6-plus-article-13082525.html]. ### Conclusion: A Call for Upgrades Amidst Technological Advancements In summary, **WhatsApp's discontinuation of support for older smartphones marks a significant shift in its operational strategy**. This decision is driven by the need for enhanced security and performance, necessitating users to upgrade their devices. The following points summarize the key findings: 1. **Discontinuation Date**: Support ended on June 1, 2025. 2. **Affected Models**: Includes older iPhones and various Android devices. 3. **New Requirements**: Users must upgrade to newer operating systems to continue using WhatsApp. As technology continues to evolve, users of older devices must adapt to these changes to maintain access to essential communication tools [https://www.express.co.uk/news/uk/2063884/list-phones-whatsapp-will-no-longer-work].