From May 2025, millions of WhatsApp users across the world, including in Nigeria, may no longer be able to use the popular messaging app on certain older smartphones. The app, which is owned by Meta (the same company behind Facebook and Instagram), will stop supporting some iPhones and Android devices that are running on outdated operating systems.
This change is part of WhatsApp’s regular software updates aimed at keeping the app safe, fast, and compatible with newer devices. However, the downside is that people who still use old phones might find themselves suddenly cut off from accessing the app.
WhatsApp’s Global Reach
WhatsApp is one of the most widely used messaging apps in the world, with over 2 billion active users every month. In Nigeria, the app is extremely popular and is often the main way people stay in touch with family, friends, colleagues, and even customers. It is also used for business, education, religious groups, and community coordination.
Given how important the app has become to daily life in Nigeria, the announcement has raised concerns, especially among people using older smartphones.
Phones Affected by the Update
According to a recent update from WhatsApp, some iPhone and Android users will no longer be able to use the app unless they upgrade their phone’s operating system or switch to a newer device.
For iPhone users, the following models will lose access:
- iPhone 5s (released in 2013)
- iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus (released in 2014)
These phones run on versions of Apple’s iOS that WhatsApp will no longer support. Users who are still on iOS 12 or below will need to upgrade their iOS version if possible. If the phone cannot be upgraded, then WhatsApp will no longer work on it after the update.
On the Android side, phones that are running on Android version 4.4 KitKat or earlier will also lose access. These include popular models such as:
- 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
These devices, many of which were released between 2012 and 2014, cannot run newer versions of the Android operating system like Android 5.0 Lollipop and above, which WhatsApp will now require to function properly.
Why WhatsApp is Ending Support
WhatsApp said that the decision to drop support for older phones is not new. In fact, the company regularly updates its list of supported devices as new technology becomes available and older systems become outdated or insecure.
“Devices and software change often, so we regularly review what operating systems we support and make updates,” WhatsApp said in a statement. “Like other technology companies, we stop supporting older operating systems to direct our resources to supporting the latest ones.”
The company added that the move helps to keep user data safe and ensure the app works smoothly.
Older phones often stop receiving software updates from the manufacturers, making them vulnerable to security threats. They also lack the ability to run newer features added to WhatsApp, such as disappearing messages, video calls, improved privacy settings, and more.
What Users Can Do
If your phone is listed among those affected, there are a few options available:
- Update Your Phone’s Software: Check your phone settings to see if a newer version of the operating system is available. If your phone is still able to run a newer version, you may be able to continue using WhatsApp.
- Switch to a Newer Device: If your current phone cannot be updated, you may need to buy a newer smartphone that supports the required operating system. Many low-cost Android phones available in Nigeria already run Android 8 and above, which is well above the minimum requirement.
- Backup Your Chats: Before WhatsApp stops working on your device, make sure to back up your chat history to Google Drive (for Android) or iCloud (for iPhones). This will help you restore your messages when you switch to a new device.
- Check for Warnings from WhatsApp: The app usually sends messages to users whose devices will soon be unsupported. These messages appear as in-app notifications or as banners urging users to upgrade their phones.
