In a significant update, WhatsApp, the widely-used messaging platform owned by Meta, has announced that it will stop working on certain older smartphones starting May 5, 2025. This change will impact devices running outdated operating systems, specifically iPhones with iOS versions earlier than 15.1. The decision aligns with Meta’s ongoing efforts to enhance security, optimize performance, and support newer features that older devices can no longer handle. Here’s everything UAE users need to know about this WhatsApp update, including affected devices, why it’s happening, and what to do next.

Why Is WhatsApp Stopping Support for Older Devices?

WhatsApp’s decision to phase out support for older devices is driven by the need to maintain a secure and efficient platform. Older operating systems, such as iOS versions below 15.1, no longer receive regular security updates from Apple, making them vulnerable to cyber threats. These devices also lack the hardware capabilities to support WhatsApp’s latest features, such as advanced biometric authentication, AI integration, and enhanced media sharing. By discontinuing support, WhatsApp aims to:

• Enhance Security: Protect user data from potential vulnerabilities in outdated systems.
• Improve Performance: Ensure the app runs smoothly on modern devices.
• Support New Features: Deliver cutting-edge functionalities that require updated hardware and software.

This move is particularly relevant in the UAE, where WhatsApp is a primary communication tool for personal and business interactions, including group chats, voice calls, and WhatsApp Business features.

READ MORE: UAE WhatsApp Down: Hundreds shocked as App Goes Silent!

Which Devices Will Be Affected in the UAE?

Starting May 5, 2025, WhatsApp will no longer work on iPhones running iOS versions earlier than 15.1. The following Apple devices, which are limited to iOS 12.5.7 and cannot be updated to iOS 15.1, will lose access to WhatsApp:

• iPhone 5s
• iPhone 6
• iPhone 6 Plus

These models, released between 2013 and 2014, are considered obsolete by Apple and no longer receive software updates or repairs. As a result, they fall short of WhatsApp’s new minimum system requirements. Notably, WhatsApp Business users on these devices will also be affected, as both apps share the same system requirements.

For Android users, WhatsApp already ended support for devices running Android 4.4 (KitKat) and earlier on January 1, 2025. UAE residents using Android devices should ensure their phones run at least Android 5.0 (Lollipop) or higher to continue using WhatsApp.

What Should UAE Users Do?

If you’re using one of the affected iPhones, here are the steps to stay connected on WhatsApp:

Check Your iOS Version:

-Go to Settings > General > About to view your current iOS version.
-If it’s below 15.1 and your device cannot update, you’ll need to upgrade your phone.

Update Your Device (If Possible):

-Navigate to Settings > General > Software Update to check for available updates.
-Note that iPhone 5s, 6, and 6 Plus cannot upgrade beyond iOS 12.5.7.

Consider Upgrading Your Phone:

-If your device is incompatible, upgrading to a newer iPhone model (such as iPhone 8 or later) will ensure continued access to WhatsApp.
-In the UAE, retailers like Sharaf DG, Jumbo Electronics, and Amazon.ae offer a range of smartphones compatible with iOS 15.1 or higher.

Backup Your Chats:

-Before switching devices, back up your WhatsApp chats to avoid losing important conversations.
-Go to WhatsApp > Settings > Chats > Chat Backup and save your data to iCloud.

Explore Alternatives (If Necessary):

-If upgrading isn’t an option, consider alternative messaging apps like Telegram or Signal, which may support older devices for a limited time. However, these apps may not offer the same widespread adoption as WhatsApp in the UAE.

Recent Context on WhatsApp Stopped Working in the UAE

In recent months, WhatsApp has faced temporary outages in the UAE, with hundreds of users reporting issues on April 12, 2025, according to outage tracking platform Downdetector. These incidents highlight the app’s critical role in the region and the importance of maintaining a compatible device to avoid further disruptions. Additionally, the UAE’s push toward AI-driven innovation, including the appointment of the world’s first AI minister in 2017, underscores the country’s focus on adopting cutting-edge technology, which aligns with WhatsApp’s move to prioritize modern devices.

FAQs About WhatsApp Stopping on Older Devices in the UAE

Why is WhatsApp stopping support for some devices in May 2025?

WhatsApp is discontinuing support for devices running iOS versions earlier than 15.1 to enhance security, improve performance, and support new features that require modern hardware.

Which iPhones will lose WhatsApp access in the UAE?

iPhone 5s, iPhone 6, and iPhone 6 Plus will no longer support WhatsApp starting May 5, 2025, as they cannot update beyond iOS 12.5.7.

Can I still use WhatsApp if I don’t upgrade my phone?

No, WhatsApp will stop functioning on affected devices after May 5, 2025. You’ll need to upgrade to a device running iOS 15.1 or higher to continue using the app.

Will WhatsApp Business be affected?

Yes, WhatsApp Business will also stop working on iPhone 5s, 6, and 6 Plus, as it shares the same system requirements as the standard app.

How can I back up my WhatsApp chats before upgrading?

Go to WhatsApp > Settings > Chats > Chat Backup and save your chats to iCloud. Ensure you have enough iCloud storage before backing up.

What should Android users in the UAE know?

WhatsApp ended support for Android 4.4 (KitKat) and earlier on January 1, 2025. Ensure your Android device runs at least Android 5.0 or higher.

Where can I buy a compatible phone in the UAE?

You can purchase newer iPhones from retailers like Sharaf DG, Jumbo Electronics, Amazon.ae, or directly from Apple’s UAE website.

As WhatsApp prepares to end support for older iPhones in the UAE starting May 5, 2025, users of iPhone 5s, 6, and 6 Plus should take action to avoid losing access to this essential app. By checking your device’s iOS version, backing up chats, and upgrading to a compatible smartphone, you can ensure uninterrupted communication.

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