WhatsApp to Stop Working on Older Android and iPhone Devices in 2025
WhatsApp to Drop Support for Older Android and iPhone Models in 2025
Millions of users with older smartphones will soon need to upgrade their devices to continue using WhatsApp.
Starting January 1, 2025, WhatsApp will no longer support Android devices running on Android 4.4 (KitKat) or older operating systems.This means popular older models from Samsung, Motorola, HTC, LG, and Sony will lose access to the messaging app.
The move comes as WhatsApp continues to evolve, adding new features and enhancing security protocols. These advancements require more robust operating systems to function properly.
“While these older devices may still be functional for basic tasks,they no longer meet the requirements for the latest WhatsApp features,” a company spokesperson said.
The change will affect approximately 20 Android models, including the Samsung Galaxy S3 and Note 2, motorola Moto G (first generation), HTC One X, LG Optimus G, and Sony Xperia Z.
iPhone users aren’t exempt either. Starting May 5, 2025, WhatsApp will stop supporting iPhones running iOS 15.1 or earlier. This will impact older models like the iPhone 5s, iPhone 6, and iPhone 6s.
These iPhones, released between 2013 and 2014, are no longer eligible for software updates that would allow them to run the latest version of WhatsApp.
For users affected by these changes, upgrading to a newer device is the only way to continue using WhatsApp.
WhatsApp Says Goodbye to Older Phones: What You Need to Know
Amelia: Hey Sarah, did you hear about WhatsApp dropping support for older phones?
Sarah: No way! I still use my old Samsung Galaxy S3. What’s happening?
Amelia: turns out,starting January 1,2025,they’re ditching support for Android phones running on Android 4.4 or older. Your S3 unluckily falls into that category.
Sarah: Seriously? But my phone works perfectly fine! What’s the big deal?
Amelia: Well, WhatsApp keeps adding new features and security updates. thes things need more powerful operating systems to run smoothly.
Sarah: That makes sense. What about iPhones?
Amelia: They’re not left out. iPhones running iOS 15.1 or older will lose support on May 5,2025. That means older models like the iPhone 5s, 6, and 6s will be affected too.
Sarah: Wow, so many people will be impacted.
Amelia: Yeah, it’s a big deal. A WhatsApp spokesperson said, “These older devices may still be functional for basic tasks, but they no longer meet the requirements for the latest WhatsApp features.”
Sarah: So, what are my options?
Amelia: The only way to keep using WhatsApp is to upgrade to a newer device.
Sarah: Ugh, that’s annoying. Guess it’s time to start browsing for a new phone!
Amelia: Same here!