Millions of users woke up to a worrying message from WhatsApp. WhatsApp Issues an urgent 24-hour countdown for some iPhone owners. If you use WhatsApp on an older iPhone, your chats, calls, and group messages may stop working today. The issue is not a random glitch. It is a planned move by WhatsApp to phase out support for certain devices.
Why Is WhatsApp Ending Support for Older iPhones?
WhatsApp regularly reviews which devices and operating systems it supports. The company says this helps keep the app secure and lets them add new features. Older phones often lack the hardware and software needed for modern security updates. Apple has already labelled some iPhones as obsolete. These devices no longer get software updates or repairs. Without updates, they become easy targets for hackers and other cyber threats.
Which iPhones Are Affected by This Change?
Starting May 5, 2025, WhatsApp Issues and urgent countdown as WhatsApp will stop working on iPhones running iOS versions below 15.1. The affected models include:
- iPhone 5s
- iPhone 6
- iPhone 6 Plus
These phones cannot upgrade beyond iOS 12.5.7. As a result, they will lose access to WhatsApp entirely. Even WhatsApp Business users on these devices will be affected.
What Should You Do If WhatsApp Not Working on Your Device?
If you see WhatsApp not working on your old iPhone, you need to act fast. Upgrading to a newer device is the only way to keep using WhatsApp. iPhones like the iPhone 8 or iPhone X still support iOS 16 and remain compatible for now. However, these models may also lose WhatsApp support soon, as Apple has stopped major updates for them too. Plan ahead if you rely on WhatsApp for daily communication.
Global Outages and Account Issues: More Reasons for WhatsApp Not Working
WhatsApp not working is not always due to device support. In April 2025, users worldwide experienced an intermittent outage. Many could not send or receive messages. Some saw a clock icon or a red exclamation mark beside their messages. Outage-tracking services like DownDetector showed a spike in problem reports. The cause remains unclear, and Meta has not given an official explanation.
Recently, some users have also reported sudden bans or login errors. These issues can happen even if you follow all the rules. Some reports suggest VPN use, Wi-Fi network changes, or even recent app updates could trigger problems. If your account is banned, try reinstalling WhatsApp from the official site, switching devices, or submitting a review request through WhatsApp support. Some users have had their accounts restored within 24 hours.
Troubleshooting Tips for WhatsApp Not Working
If WhatsApp not working is disrupting your day, try these quick fixes:
- Restart your device to resolve minor software glitches.
- Check notification settings to ensure WhatsApp can alert you to new messages.
- On iPhone, enable Background App Refresh for WhatsApp to keep messages coming in.
- Turn off Low Power Mode, which can block WhatsApp from receiving messages in the background.
- Ensure your phone number and Apple ID are set up to send and receive messages.
If none of these steps work, your device may no longer be supported. In that case, upgrading is the only solution.
Why Regular Updates Matter for Messaging Apps
WhatsApp prioritises security. Older devices without updates are more vulnerable to cyber attacks. By ending support for outdated phones, WhatsApp protects your privacy and data. This move also allows the company to introduce new features that require modern hardware and software.
What to Expect Next
WhatsApp will continue to review which devices it supports. If you use an older iPhone, keep an eye on official announcements. Upgrading your phone is the best way to ensure you do not lose access to your chats. Meta recommends using devices that receive regular security updates for the best experience.
Many users rely on WhatsApp for personal and business communication. If you are affected by these changes, act quickly to avoid disruptions. Stay updated with WhatsApp news to keep your chats safe and accessible.