WhatsApp to Drop support for Older Phones Starting January 1, 2025
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WhatsApp, the ubiquitous messaging app owned by meta, is preparing to discontinue support for a range of older smartphones, effective January 1, 2025. This move, aimed at improving security adn optimizing features for newer devices, will affect users with phones over a decade old or running outdated Android operating systems.
specifically, devices running Android KitKat or earlier versions will no longer be compatible. Meta strongly recommends that affected users upgrade their phones to ensure continued access to the platform and it’s latest features. “Meta recommends that affected users immediately update their cellphones,” a spokesperson stated. Failure to upgrade will result in the complete loss of WhatsApp functionality.
List of Affected Smartphones
- Samsung Galaxy S3
- Samsung Galaxy Note 2
- Samsung Galaxy Ace 3
- Samsung Galaxy S4 Mini
- Motorola Moto G (1st Generation)
- Motorola Razr HD
- Motorola Moto E 2014
- HTC One X
- HTC One X+
- HTC Desire 500
- HTC Desire 601
- LG Optimus G
- LG Nexus 4
- LG G2 Mini
- LG L90
- Sony Xperia Z
- sony Xperia SP
- Sony Xperia T
- Sony Xperia V
Users of these devices are urged to back up their chat history before the cutoff date to avoid losing valuable conversations.This can be done by navigating to WhatsApp Settings, selecting “Chats,” then ”chat Backup,” and finally initiating the backup process. This ensures a seamless transition to a new device.
This announcement follows a similar move by Meta earlier this year, which ended support for iPhones running iOS 15.1 or earlier. However, support for those iPhones will continue until May 2025, according to HDblog.
The decision highlights the ongoing evolution of mobile technology and the need for users to keep their devices updated to maintain access to popular apps and services. For many Americans, staying connected through messaging apps like WhatsApp is crucial for both personal and professional communication.
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WhatsApp Saying Goodbye to Older Phones: What Users Need to know
Millions rely on WhatsApp for daily communication, but starting January 1, 2025, the app will no longer support devices running Android KitKat or older operating systems.This change affects a important number of older smartphone models, leaving many users wondering about their options. To shed light on this topic, we spoke with tech expert and cybersecurity consultant, Dr. Amelia Chen, about the implications of this proclamation.
World Today News Senior Editor: Dr. Chen,thanks for joining us today.Can you explain why WhatsApp is dropping support for these older devices?
Dr. Amelia Chen: Certainly. This decision is primarily driven by security concerns and the need to optimize the app’s performance. Older Android versions are more vulnerable to security threats and may lack the necessary components to support WhatsApp’s latest features and encrypted messaging protocols.
World Today News Senior Editor: So, what does this mean for users with affected smartphones?
Dr. Amelia Chen: It means they will lose access to WhatsApp functionality starting January 1, 2025. They will no longer be able to send or receive messages, make calls, or access any other features within the app.
World Today News Senior Editor: that’s a pretty significant change. What are your recommendations for users who are facing this situation?
Dr. Amelia Chen: My advice is to upgrade to a newer device that meets WhatsApp’s minimum system requirements as soon as possible. Back up your chat history before switching devices to avoid losing significant conversations. You can export chats to Google Drive or your computer for safekeeping.If upgrading isn’t an option, consider exploring option messaging platforms that support older devices, but be mindful of their security practices.
World Today News Senior Editor: Are there any specific models you would highlight as being notably affected by this change?
Dr. Amelia Chen: Yes, many popular models released over a decade ago are on the list, including the Samsung Galaxy S3, Motorola Razr HD, HTC One X, and LG Optimus G. The full list is available on the WhatsApp website and in the original World Today News article.
World Today News Senior Editor: This move follows a similar decision earlier this year regarding older iPhones. Is this a trend we should expect to see continue with other popular apps?
Dr.Amelia Chen: It’s certainly possible. As technology advances and security threats evolve, app developers will need to ensure their platforms are secure and efficient.Older devices simply may not be able to keep up with these demands.
World Today News Senior Editor: Dr. Chen, thank you for your insights on this important matter.
Dr. Amelia Chen: My pleasure.
