WhatsApp to Drop Support for Older Smartphones in 2025
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Millions of Americans coudl soon find themselves locked out of WhatsApp, the popular messaging app, as Meta, its parent company, announced plans to discontinue support for older Android and iPhone models in 2025. The move, effective January 1, 2025, for some devices and May 2025 for others, is designed to accommodate the app’s evolving features and security updates.
the cutoff affects Android phones running Android KitKat (version 4.4) and below.”The reason for discontinuing support is WhatsApp’s evolving features and functionality,” explained a WhatsApp spokesperson. “Meta wants to implement more demanding features, AI functions, etc., they need more modern hardware.” This means that devices launched over a decade ago, like many older Samsung Galaxy and Xiaomi models, will no longer be compatible.
The changes extend beyond Android. In May 2025, WhatsApp will also cease support for iPhones running iOS 12 and older.This is primarily due to security considerations, as older operating systems lack the latest security patches. “After having an Android gadget with OS above 5.0 and an iPhone with iOS 12 or above, you can download WhatsApp and register a telephone number,” the company stated on its official website.
It’s important to note that the ability to receive SMS messages is crucial for verifying accounts. whatsapp will not support account setup for devices relying solely on Wi-Fi.
Affected Devices:
Here’s a partial list of affected devices. This is not exhaustive, and users should check WhatsApp’s official website for a complete list:
- Samsung: Galaxy S3, Galaxy S4, Galaxy Note 3, Galaxy Grand 2, Galaxy Tab 4 series, Galaxy Alpha
- Xiaomi: Mi 3, Redmi Note (1st generation), Redmi 1S, Mi 4, Redmi Note 4G
- OPPO: find 7, N1 Mini, R5, Neo 5
- Vivo: Xshot, Xplay 3S, Y51 (2015), Y27
- Huawei: ascend Mate 2, P7, Honor 4X, G Play Mini
- Apple: iPhone 5s, iPhone 6, iPhone 6 Plus
Users with affected devices are encouraged to upgrade to newer models to continue using WhatsApp. The company’s decision highlights the ongoing evolution of mobile technology and the importance of regular software updates for security and functionality.
WhatsApp Drops Support for Older Smartphones: A Conversation with David Lee
Senior Editor, world-today-news.com: Welcome, David.Thanks for joining us to discuss WhatsApp’s recent announcement about dropping support for older smartphones. Many of our readers are likely wondering what this means for them.
David Lee, Smartphone Technology Specialist: It’s a pleasure to be here. This news definitely has implications for millions of people who rely on WhatsApp, particularly those with older devices.
Senior Editor: so, could you break down the key points of this change? When exactly will support end?
David Lee: Sure. WhatsApp has announced they will be phasing out support for older Android and iPhone models. For some Android devices running Android KitKat (version 4.4) or below, the cutoff is January 1st, 2025. For iPhones running iOS 12 or older, the cut-off is May 2025.
Senior Editor: That’s a meaningful chunk of time. Why is WhatsApp making this decision?
David Lee: There are a couple of key reasons. Primarily,WhatsApp needs to keep up with evolving features and security updates. Newer devices and operating systems are more capable of handling the demanding features and AI functions whatsapp is developing. Also,older operating systems lack the latest security patches,making them more vulnerable. WhatsApp prioritizes user security, so this is a major factor in thier decision.
Also, keep in mind, this means devices launched over a decade ago – like many older Samsung Galaxy and Xiaomi models – won’t be compatible anymore.
senior Editor: What does this mean for people who have these older devices? Are they entirely out of luck?
David Lee: Not necessarily. The most straightforward solution is to upgrade to a newer smartphone.
However, it’s also important to note that WhatsApp requires SMS verification for account setup. this means devices that rely solely on Wi-Fi for connectivity won’t be able to create new accounts.
Senior Editor: So, it sounds like upgrading is the best bet. Where can users go to get a full list of affected devices?
David Lee: WhatsApp has listed some affected devices on their official website, but it’s not an exhaustive list. It’s best to check WhatsApp’s website directly for the most up-to-date information.
Senior Editor: Thanks for clarifying that, David. Any final thoughts for our readers?
David Lee: This change highlights the importance of keeping your devices and software updated. As technology evolves, older devices may eventually reach the end of their supported lifespans.
Staying informed about these changes can help users make informed decisions about their devices and stay connected securely.
