WhatsApp will stop working on millions of smartphones starting January 1, 2025. Meta has announced that the instant messaging app will no longer support a range of Android devices running on the KitKat OS or older versions, cometh the new year.
Android KitKat, which made a debut a decade ago in 2013, has gradually fallen out of use as most smartphones now operate on significantly newer versions of Android.
The company stated that older platforms often lack the capabilities needed to support new updates, posing security threat and limiting functionality. The discontinuation of support means that WhatsApp will no longer provide updates, bug fixes, or security patches for affected devices.
WhatsApp will also stop supporting older iOS versions starting in 2025. From May 5 onwards, devices running iOS versions earlier than 15.1 will no longer be able to access the app, including through older beta versions on TestFlight.
WhatsApp currently supports iOS 12 and above, but with the upcoming updates, iPhones will require iOS 15.1 as the minimum version for for continued functionality.
Meta is providing a five-month notice period to users, giving them time to update their iPhones or explore other options if their hardware cannot support the latest iOS versions.
The company’s move is to ensure updates to ensure compatibility with newer technologies and maintain the app’s security and functionality.
The decision impacts several devices, including some models from prominent brands like Samsung, LG, and Sony, that were launched over a decade ago. Users are recommended to upgrade to devices running newer Android versions to continue availing WhatsApp services.
Here is the full list of Android phones and iPhones that will not be able to access WhatsApp in a few days (and months for iPhones):
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
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
Apple
- iPhone 5s
- iPhone 6
- iPhone 6 Plus
This is not the first time Meta has ended WhatsApp support for older operating systems. The company reviews its minimum requirements for Android and iOS at regular intervals to ensure the app remains compatible with current security standards and features. In recent years, similar moves have been made to phase out earlier Android versions and older iOS devices.
WhatsApp supports chat and data backup via Google Drive storage and in case you have data stored in any of the phones mentioned above, it is time to back it up before the new year sets in.
Also Read: How To Use ChatGPT On WhatsApp: Free Messaging Tips
