So, here's the deal: starting June 1, 2025, WhatsApp is pulling the plug on a bunch of older phones, both iPhones and Androids, that can’t run iOS 15.1 or higher. That means millions of folks could suddenly find themselves locked out of their chats if they don’t update their phone or get a new one altogether.
Naturally, one of the hottest questions floating around right now is: “Wait, what about the iPhone 6s?” Let’s clear that up.
Read also: How to Check if Your Phone Will Support WhatsApp in 2025
Which iPhones Are Actually Losing WhatsApp Support?
According to WhatsApp’s updated FAQ (and yes, they’ve done this kind of thing before), any iPhone that can’t run iOS 15.1 or later is on the chopping block.
Here’s a quick look at the models officially losing support:
- iPhone 5s
- iPhone 6
- iPhone 6 Plus
- iPhone SE (1st generation)
These phones just can’t update to iOS 15.1, so they’re out of luck.
What About the iPhone 6s and 6s Plus?
Here’s where things get a bit confusing. A lot of early reports made it sound like the iPhone 6s and 6s Plus were doomed too, but that’s not quite right. Both of these phones can still run iOS 15.8.4, which means they're safe... for now.
If you’re using one of these models and it’s still running iOS 14 or something older, you’ve gotta update before June 1, 2025, or you’ll be locked out of WhatsApp like everyone else on the “unsupported” list.
Read also: WhatsApp Update 2025: Full List of Unsupported Android Phones
Not Sure Which iOS Version You’re On? Here’s How to Check:
- Go to Settings
- Tap General
- Hit About
- Look for Software Version
If it says 15.1 or higher, you’re good to go. If it doesn’t, and your phone can’t go any higher, well, it might be time to make some decisions.
What If Your iPhone Can’t Handle iOS 15.1?
If you're still holding onto an older model like the iPhone 5s, 6, or 6 Plus, there's no magic fix. WhatsApp just won’t work on these devices after June 1. But don’t panic, here’s what you should do:
- Back up your chats: Open WhatsApp, go to Settings > Chats > Chat Backup, and make sure you’ve saved everything to iCloud.
- Think about upgrading: Devices like the iPhone SE (2022), iPhone 11, or iPhone 13 are relatively affordable now and fully supported.
- Or switch to Android (if that’s your vibe): Just make sure it’s running Android 5.1 or newer, which meets WhatsApp’s minimum requirement in 2025.
Why Is WhatsApp Doing This, Anyway?
In a word? Progress.
WhatsApp’s adding newer features all the time, from better encryption to fancy AI tools, and older operating systems just can’t keep up. Supporting really old devices holds everything back and, honestly, opens the door to security risks.
This kind of thing happens every few years. It’s less about ditching users and more about making sure the app stays fast, safe, and future-ready.
What’s the Long-Term Outlook for iPhone 6s?
Right now, if your iPhone 6s is updated to iOS 15.1 or later, you’re fine. But let’s be real, this grace period won’t last forever. Apple might stop pushing out security updates for iOS 15, and WhatsApp could eventually raise the bar again with newer requirements.
If you're still using a 6s in 2025, you might want to start thinking about your next phone, not just for WhatsApp, but for other apps that could soon follow suit.
Final Thoughts
To wrap it up: Yes, the iPhone 6s will still support WhatsApp in 2025, but only if you’ve updated to at least iOS 15.1. If your phone’s too old to update, or you’ve been putting off that update for a while, June 1 is your deadline.
Don’t wait till the app stops working. Back up your chats, check your iOS version, and start thinking about whether it’s time for a device upgrade. After all, staying connected shouldn't be a guessing game.
