WhatsApp to Cease Functionality on Outdated Android Devices by 2025
Meta Platforms has made a significant announcement regarding WhatsApp’s functionality on older Android smartphones. Specifically, support will be withdrawn for devices over a decade old that continue to operate on Android KitKat and earlier versions. Effective January 1, 2025, these aging handsets will no longer be able to access the popular messaging application.
Why the Change?
This decision stems from WhatsApp’s commitment to enhancing its features and introducing new functionalities that require more advanced hardware capabilities. The company plans to integrate sophisticated features, including artificial intelligence applications, which necessitate modern operating systems and processing power.
Affected Devices
The following list includes several devices set to lose their WhatsApp capabilities:
- Samsung: Galaxy S3, Galaxy Note 2, Galaxy Ace 3, Galaxy S4 Mini
- Motorola: Moto G (1st Gen), Razr HD, Moto E (2014)
- HTC: One X, One X+, Desire 500, Desire 601
- LG: Optimus G, Nexus 4, G2 Mini, L90
- Sony: Xperia Z series (Xperia Z1 & Z2), Xperia SP and T models
Coping with the Transition
If you happen to still be using any of these devices—potentially as secondary or ‘burner’ phones—it’s essential that you take measures now to back up your WhatsApp data onto a newer device. Once the cutoff date arrives in January 2025, you risk losing all chat history and media files associated with your account.
If You Own an iPhone!
A similar notice was issued by Meta a few months ago concerning iPhones; users with models running iOS versions older than 15.1 are also facing discontinuation of support. However, iPhone users can breathe easier as they have until May 2025 before their access is revoked.
Source: Metaverse News Network