WhatsApp to Cease Support for Android Smartphones Running Android OS Version 4.1 or Earlier. Following the End of Support, Users Will No Longer Receive App Updates and Will Soon Be Unable to Utilize the Messaging App on Their Smartphones.
WhatsApp regularly updates its platforms to introduce new features and address security vulnerabilities, enhancing the overall user experience, privacy, and security. Each month, all WhatsApp versions, including those for Android, iOS, and the web, receive system updates to ensure compatibility with newer operating systems. However, as new updates cater to more recent operating systems, WhatsApp discontinues support for older or obsolete ones to focus on advancing its technological capabilities.
In a recent announcement, WhatsApp declared its intention to terminate support for smartphones running Android OS version 4.1 and older, effective October 24.
Explaining their rationale, WhatsApp stated, “To determine what to discontinue supporting, we, like many technology companies, assess which devices and software are the oldest and have the smallest user base. Such devices may lack the latest security updates or lack the necessary functionality to run WhatsApp.” This information can be found in the official WhatsApp FAQ.
Below is a list of some popular smartphones running Android OS version 4.1 and older:
- Nexus 7 (upgradable to Android 4.2)
- Samsung Galaxy Note 2
- HTC One
- Sony Xperia Z
- LG Optimus G Pro
- Samsung Galaxy S2
- Samsung Galaxy Nexus
- HTC Sensation
- Motorola Droid Razr
- Sony Xperia S2
- Motorola Xoom
- Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1
- Asus Eee Pad Transformer
- Acer Iconia Tab A5003
- Samsung Galaxy S
- HTC Desire HD
- LG Optimus 2X
- Sony Ericsson Xperia Arc3
While most of these phones are outdated models with a limited user base, if you still own one, it is advisable to consider upgrading to a newer device. This is not only because WhatsApp will cease to support it but also because many other apps discontinue their support for outdated operating systems. Furthermore, without receiving new security updates, your phone becomes susceptible to cybersecurity threats.
If you are uncertain about your smartphone’s Android OS version, you can verify it by accessing the settings menu on your device. Navigate to Settings > About phone > Software information, and you will find your Android version listed under the Version category.
WhatsApp will provide advance notifications within the app and send reminders to users, urging them to update their devices. If a device is not updated, WhatsApp will cease to function on that device. Consequently, users will be unable to send or receive messages, make or receive calls, or access any other WhatsApp features.
Here is a list of devices that will continue to receive WhatsApp support after October 24:
- Android OS version 5.0 and newer
- iPhones running iOS 12 and newer
- KaiOS 2.5.0 and newer, including JioPhone and JioPhone 2
Additionally, WhatsApp mandates users to have a phone number capable of receiving SMS or calls to verify their accounts. The platform does not permit the creation of new accounts on devices with only Wi-Fi access.
