Starting May 5, 2025, millions of people in Nigeria and across the globe could lose access to WhatsApp as the messaging platform discontinues support for older smartphones.
Meta, the company behind WhatsApp, revealed that the app will stop functioning on outdated mobile devices that no longer meet updated security and performance requirements. This change will impact not only regular users but also small business owners who depend on WhatsApp Business for their daily operations.
Meta explained that the decision aligns with its focus on improving data protection and ensuring the app remains compatible with modern technology. In a statement, the company said:
“As technology evolves, discontinuing support for older devices is essential to preserve app security and reliability.”
From May 2025, WhatsApp will no longer be supported on iPhones running below iOS 15.1, including models like:
• iPhone 5s
• iPhone 6
• iPhone 6 Plus
These older iPhones cannot upgrade beyond iOS 12.5.7 and will therefore be incompatible with the app.
This move follows an earlier decision to phase out WhatsApp support for Android devices running version 4.4 (KitKat) or earlier as of January 1, 2025. The affected Android phones include:
Samsung: Galaxy S3, Note 2, Ace 3, S4 Mini
Motorola: Moto G (1st Gen), Moto E (2014), Razr HD
HTC: One X+, Desire 500, Desire 601
LG: Optimus G, L90
Sony: Xperia Z, SP, T, V
Nexus 4
To keep using WhatsApp beyond the cutoff date, users are encouraged to upgrade to devices with iOS 15.1 or Android 5.0 (Lollipop) and above. Meta also advised users to back up their chats to avoid losing important conversations when switching devices.
