Starting January 1, 2025, social media platform, WhatApp, will no longer be supported on Android devices running the KitKat operating system (OS) or older versions. This change will affect users with phones that are nine to 10 years old.
On the other hand, iPhone users have until May 2025 to update their older devices. To keep using WhatsApp, users with affected phones will need to upgrade to newer models with more current operating systems.
Why WhatsApp is dropping support for older phones
WhatsApp’s parent company, Meta, explains that this decision is aimed at improving security and app functionality. As technology advances, older devices struggle to support new features and can't protect user data effectively. Without updates or security patches, these phones become more vulnerable to cyber threats. Therefore, WhatsApp will focus on devices that can run the latest software.
Phones that will lose WhatsApp support
The following Android phones will no longer support WhatsApp starting January 1, 2025:
1. Samsung Galaxy S3
2. Motorola Moto G (1st Gen)
3. HTC One X & HTC One X+
4. Sony Xperia Z
5. LG Optimus G
6. LG Nexus 4
7. Sony Xperia T, V, and SP
iPhone Users: Upgrade by May 2025
While Android users face an immediate cut-off, iPhone users have until May 5, 2025. After this date, WhatsApp will no longer support iPhones running iOS 15.1 or lower. This means iPhone 5s, iPhone 6, and iPhone 6 Plus users will need to upgrade their devices or update to a newer iOS version to continue using the app.
Meta’s Commitment to Security
This step is part of Meta’s broader initiative to keep WhatsApp secure, efficient, and compatible with the latest technologies. As older phones cannot handle the app’s evolving features, WhatsApp will gradually withdraw support for older models.
This is not the first time WhatsApp has dropped support for older devices, and similar changes have been made for both Android and iOS users in the past.–etnow