WhatsApp Users Shocked! App to Stop Working on These Smartphones from January 1

From January 1, 2025, WhatsApp will end support for outdated Android and iOS devices, including Samsung Galaxy S3, LG Optimus G, and iPhone 6. Users must upgrade their devices to continue using the app as older hardware won't support new features.

By Joseph Mathews Dec 23, 2024, 14:58 IST

WhatsApp has announced one major decision that will affect users of older Android and iOS smartphones. This application will no longer support devices running Android KitKat and its older versions from January 1, 2025. This means all the users with these old devices have to upgrade a new smartphone to continue with WhatsApp.

Affected Android Devices

Some of the most popular phones around, including the Motorola Moto G, Samsung Galaxy S3, Samsung Galaxy Note 2, Sony Xperia Z, LG Optimus G, and HTC One X are among those that will not support WhatsApp as it will not support some features due to lack of some hardware compatibility required.

WhatsApp will not support devices developed by iPhone.

WhatsApp support for older iOS versions, including iOS 15.1 and earlier, will also stop, affecting devices such as iPhone 5s, iPhone 6 Plus, and iPhone 6. However, iPhone users still have until May 5, 2025, to upgrade their devices to use the app without interruption.

Why Is WhatsApp Doing This?

As WhatsApp continues to roll out advanced features, older devices fail to meet the hardware and software requirements for seamless functionality. By ending support for outdated operating systems, WhatsApp aims to enhance user experience and maintain app security.

What Should Users Do?

To continue using WhatsApp without interference, Android and iPhone users with unsupported devices have to upgrade to smartphones running more recent versions of Android or iOS. The app's website lists compatible devices to ease their transition.