WhatsApp to end Support for Older Smartphones in 2025
Millions of Americans could soon find themselves locked out of WhatsApp, the popular messaging app. Starting January 1, 2025, whatsapp will cease support for devices running older operating systems, impacting a important number of users with outdated smartphones.
The move, announced by WhatsApp, is designed to enhance security and optimize app performance. “Starting May 5, 2025, only iOS version 15.1 and newer will be supported,” the company stated in an official proclamation on December 30, 2024. This means that older iPhones and Android devices will no longer be compatible.
For Android users, this means popular older models like the Samsung Galaxy S3, Samsung Galaxy Note 2, Asus Zenfone 4-6, and the first-generation Motorola Moto G will be affected. These devices run operating systems older than Android 5.0 (Lollipop).
iPhone users will also be impacted. The iPhone 5 and iPhone 5C, wich only support up to iOS 10, will be unable to use WhatsApp after the cutoff date. “Every year we look at which phone devices and software are the oldest and have the fewest users,” WhatsApp explained. “These devices may also not have the latest security updates or may not have the necessary functionality to run WhatsApp.”
To continue using WhatsApp after January 1, 2025, users will need devices running at least:
- Android version 5.0 (Lollipop) or later
- iOS 12 or later (until May 5, 2025)
- iOS 15.1 or later (after May 5, 2025)
WhatsApp also emphasizes the importance of SMS or call access for account registration. “We do not support setting up new accounts on devices that only use WiFi,” the company confirmed. For those with unsupported devices,upgrading the operating system (if possible) or switching to a newer phone is recommended.
This change highlights the ever-evolving landscape of technology and the importance of keeping devices updated for security and compatibility with popular apps.Millions of Americans rely on WhatsApp for communication, and this update underscores the need to stay current with software and hardware.
WhatsApp’s Upcoming Change: What You Need to Know
Welcome back to World Today News. Today, we’ll be discussing WhatsApp’s declaration to end support for older smartphones. I’m here with Dr. Amy Chen,a technology expert with over 15 years of experiance specializing in mobile operating systems and app security.
Senior Editor: Dr. Chen, thanks for joining us.Manny of our readers rely on WhatsApp for daily communication. Can you explain what this change means for them?
Dr. Chen: Essentially,WhatsApp is ending support for devices running very old operating systems. This means that starting January 1, 2025, people with certain older iPhones and Android phones, like teh iPhone 5 or the Samsung Galaxy S3, will no longer be able to use WhatsApp.
Senior Editor: Why is WhatsApp making this change?
Dr. Chen: It boils down to security and performance. WhatsApp wants to ensure its users have the most secure experience possible. Older operating systems often lack the latest security updates, leaving them vulnerable to cyberattacks. Additionally, newer versions of WhatsApp frequently enough require more processing power and memory, which older devices may not have.
Senior Editor: So, what can people do if they have an older phone that won’t be supported?
Dr. Chen: the best option is to upgrade to a newer smartphone that runs a supported operating system. For Android, that’s version 5.0 or later. For iPhones, it will be iOS 15.1 or later after May 5,2025.
If upgrading isn’t possible, there are free messaging alternatives that might still work on older devices. Though, always research their security practices before sharing personal information.
senior Editor: Are there any specifics iPhone users should be aware of?
Dr. Chen: Yes, WhatsApp implemented a bit of a staggered approach for iPhones. Until May 5, 2025, iPhone users will need iOS 12 or later. But after that date, the minimum requirement jumps to iOS 15.1.
Senior Editor: This seems like a big change for a lot of people. Any final thoughts for our viewers?
Dr.Chen: Absolutely. Technology is constantly evolving, and it’s important to keep our devices updated for both security and functionality.While this change may seem inconvenient, it ultimately benefits everyone by ensuring a safer and more reliable WhatsApp experience for all.
Senior Editor: Thank you so much for yoru insightful explanation, Dr. Chen. This is critically important information for our readers. Remember, folks, stay updated to stay connected!
