If you have any of these phones, you will not be able to use Whatsapp from February 2025
Android smartphones and several iPhone models will be impacted. Users will no longer receive messages or be able to update the app.

Starting from this month, February 2025, WhatsApp will no longer be compatible with some mobile phones - certain models which don’t meet the minimum operating system requirements. The app now requires version Android 5.0 or above for devices running Google’s system, while iPhones will need to have iOS 15.1 or later.
This change is necessary to ensure the app functions correctly in terms of security and performance. Devices that cannot be updated to these operating system versions will no longer receive support and won’t be able to use WhatsApp.
From February 2025, WhatsApp will no longer be compatible with Android phones that can’t be updated to Android 5.0 - the fifth major version of the operating system which launched in 2014.
Here are some of the models that will be affected:
- Samsung: Galaxy S3, Galaxy S4 (some variants)
- LG: Optimus G, Optimus L5, L7, L9
- Sony: Xperia M, Xperia Z, Xperia S
- Motorola: Moto E (1st generation), Moto G (1st generation)
- Huawei: Ascend P6, Ascend Mate
- HTC: One X, One S
- ZTE: Grand S Flex, Grand X Quad V987
If you have one of these models, you won’t be able to use WhatsApp unless you upgrade to a newer device that supports the required operating system.
The iPhone models that won’t be able to use WhatsApp from this month are those that can’t be updated to iOS 15.1. These include:
- iPhone 6
- iPhone 6 Plus
- iPhone 5S
- Older models (iPhone 5, iPhone 4S, iPhone 4, etc.)
To check which operating system your phone has:
- On Android: Go to Settings > About Phone or Device Information > Android Version.
- On iPhone: Go to Settings > General > About > Software Version.
If your device doesn’t meet the requirements, you’ll see notifications in the app warning you about the upcoming incompatibility.
To find out the operating system and its specific version on your phone, you can follow these simple steps:
For Android:
- Open Settings: Look for the gear icon in your app drawer or notification shade.
- Scroll Down and Tap on “About Phone”: This might also be labeled as “About Device” or “System.”
- Check the Android Version: You’ll see the Android version listed here, along with other details about your device.
For iPhone:
- Open Settings: Look for the gear icon on your home screen.
- Tap on “General”: It’s usually near the top of the list.
- Tap on “About”: Here, you’ll find the “Software Version” which tells you the iOS version your iPhone is running.
These steps will help you determine if your device meets the requirements to continue using WhatsApp. If your device doesn’t meet the requirements, you might need to consider upgrading to a newer model.
An outdated phone cannot receive security patches or updates.
For Android:
The process may vary slightly depending on the brand, but generally, you need to go to the Settings app. Then, scroll down to the ‘About Phone’ or ‘Device Information’ option. Within this section, you’ll find the ‘Android Version,’ which shows the exact operating system version installed.
For iPhone:
The process is similar. Open the Settings app and select ‘General.’ Then, tap on ‘About,’ where you’ll see the ‘Software Version,’ indicating the exact iOS version your device is running.
Knowing your operating system version is crucial for verifying compatibility with apps and security updates.
Android 15 is rolling out now with exciting new features. Catch up on everything you need to know on our blog ➡️ https://t.co/KI9KA8GB3i #Android15
— Android (@Android) October 16, 2024
What to Do If Your Phone Can’t Update:
If your phone can’t update, here are some steps you can take:
- Free Up Storage Space: Ensure you have enough space for updates.
- Check Your Wi-Fi Connection: Make sure you’re connected to a stable Wi-Fi network.
- Restart Your Device: Sometimes a simple restart can resolve update issues.
- Update Google Play Services: For Android, make sure Google Play Services are up to date.
- Clear Cache: Clear the cache of the update app or Google Play Store.
- Safe Mode: Boot your device in safe mode to see if any third-party apps are causing issues.
If these steps don’t work, you might need to consider upgrading to a newer device to ensure you continue receiving important updates and security patches.
Users can opt for similar apps like Telegram.
If your device starts having compatibility issues with multiple apps or stops receiving security updates, switching to a newer model might be the best solution.
Before making a decision, it’s recommended to check your device settings or consult the manufacturer to see if any updates are available that could extend its functionality.
we’re rolling out design updates to give WhatsApp a fresh new look, while keeping it familiar + easy to use 🤩 here are some ways it’s changing ⬇️
— WhatsApp (@WhatsApp) May 9, 2024
• updated layout and icons that that help you find what you need faster
• new illustrations with added animation to… pic.twitter.com/pFu0cfxpWY
When it’s time to upgrade your mobile phone
It’s important to note that an outdated mobile phone can become incompatible with apps like WhatsApp and stop receiving updates and security patches, increasing the risk of vulnerabilities. It may also experience performance issues, shorter battery life, and connectivity problems.
Without manufacturer support, some functions may stop working altogether, limiting its use and forcing you to seek alternatives or replace the device.
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