WhatsApp will stop supporting select Android phones in the new year, and starting from January 1, 2025, devices older than 10 years that run Android KitKat OS or Android 4.4 will no longer be able to access Meta's WhatsApp app.
Meta announced that WhatsApp will no longer support a range of Android devices running KitKat OS or older versions, starting from January 1, 2025. This step is part of the company's regular updates to ensure compatibility with newer technologies and maintain the app's security and functionality.
The decision affects many devices, including some models from prominent brands such as Samsung, LG, and Sony, which were released more than a decade ago, and users are encouraged to upgrade to devices running newer Android versions to continue accessing WhatsApp services.
Phones that WhatsApp will not work on starting in 2025:
- Samsung: Galaxy S3, Galaxy Note 2, Galaxy Ace 3, Galaxy S4 mini
- Motorola: Moto G (first generation), 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
This is not the first time that Meta has ended support for older operating systems, and the company periodically reviews its minimum requirements for Android and iOS to ensure that the application remains compatible with current security standards and features, and in recent years, similar steps have been taken to phase out older iOS devices and previous versions of Android.
iPhones that will not support WhatsApp:
WhatsApp has also announced that it will stop supporting older iOS versions starting in 2025. Starting from May 5 onwards, devices running iOS versions older than 15.1 will no longer be able to access the app. While WhatsApp currently supports iOS 12 and above, the upcoming changes will require iOS 15.1 as a minimum to continue working.
To give users time to adapt, WhatsApp is offering a five-month notice period, allowing them to update their devices or explore other options if their devices do not support the latest iOS versions.
This update will primarily affect users of older iPhones, specifically:
- iPhone 5s
- iPhone 6
- iPhone 6 Plus
Which are limited to iOS 12.5.7.
These models, which were released more than a decade ago, represent a small segment of WhatsApp's user base. For users with newer iPhones running an older operating system, upgrading to iOS 15.1 or higher will ensure continued access to WhatsApp. The changes will affect the standard WhatsApp app and WhatsApp Business, both of which rely on the same system requirements. With this move, WhatsApp aims to improve performance, security, and compatibility for users on modern devices.