WhatsApp will no longer function on millions of Android phones running outdated versions of the operating system. As the Meta-owned platform develops and adds new features that require up-to-date hardware and operating systems, it keeps removing devices from its support list, including iPhones.
More than ten years have passed since the release of Android KitKat, and as of January 2025, the messaging app will no longer be supported on the Android version. Therefore, it’s time to upgrade and purchase a new smartphone if you’re still using an Android phone running the KitKat version so you can keep using WhatsApp.
The ruling affects several devices, including certain models from prominent brands like Samsung, LG, and Sony that were introduced over 10 years ago. Here is the full list of Android phones that will not be able to access WhatsApp in a few days.
- 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
Meta has previously discontinued support for outdated operating systems. To make sure the software stays compatible with the most recent security features and standards, the company periodically analyses its minimum requirements for iOS and Android. Similar moves to phase out outdated Android and iOS devices have been made in recent years.
WhatsApp will end support for these iPhones
WhatsApp has said that, from January 2025, it would no longer support previous versions of iOS. Devices with iOS versions below 15.1 will no longer be able to use the app, including through older beta versions on TestFlight, starting on May 5. The planned modifications will require iOS 15.1 as the minimum version for WhatsApp to continue working, even though it presently supports iOS 12 and above. To allow users time to adjust, In the event that their hardware is unable to handle the most latest versions of iOS, WhatsApp is offering users a five-month notice time to update their handsets or look into other options.
Users of earlier iPhone models—specifically, the iPhone 5s, iPhone 6, and iPhone 6 Plus—who are only running iOS 12.5.7 will be the primary recipients of this update. These devices, which were introduced more than ten years ago, only make up a minuscule portion of WhatsApp’s user base. Upgrading to iOS 15.1 or later provides customers with newer iPhones that are still running outdated software and continuous access to WhatsApp.
Because both WhatsApp Business and the regular WhatsApp app depend on the same system requirements, the changes will affect both. WhatsApp hopes to improve user compatibility, security, and performance on modern phones with this change.
