WhatsApp to Cease Support for Over 25 Older Phone Models by Apple, Samsung, Sony, and Other Brands, Prioritizing New Feature Development for Modern Devices
Starting from October 24, 2023, WhatsApp is discontinuing support for certain older Android phones and iPhones. The reason for this decision, according to the platform, is to concentrate on developing new features for users on more recent operating system versions while also capitalizing on the latest security enhancements and technological advancements. Consequently, they are ending support for select older smartphone models running Android OS version 4.1 or earlier.
In order to determine which devices and software to stop supporting, we, like other technology companies, annually assess the oldest devices with the smallest user base. These devices often lack the most recent security updates and may not possess the necessary functionality to run WhatsApp. The official WhatsApp FAQ states, “To choose what to stop supporting, every year we, like other technology companies, look at which devices and software are the oldest and have the fewest number of people still using them. These devices also might not have the latest security updates, or might lack the functionality required to run WhatsApp.”
Below is a list of devices that will no longer be compatible with WhatsApp:
Outdated Android smartphones:
- Samsung Galaxy S2
- Nexus 7
- iPhone 5
- iPhone 5c
- Archos 53 Platinum
- Grand S Flex ZTE
- Grand X Quad V987 ZTE
- HTC Desire 500
- Huawei Ascend D
- Huawei Ascend D1
- HTC One
- Sony Xperia Z
- LG Optimus G Pro
- 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
Prior to discontinuing support, WhatsApp is notifying users and urging them to upgrade their devices to maintain access to WhatsApp. However, after October 24, WhatsApp developers will cease providing technical support and updates. Consequently, the device’s operating system will no longer receive automatic updates, patches, security fixes, bug corrections, or new features. While the operating system will still function without updates, it will become more susceptible to hacking and malware attacks. It’s worth noting that most of the phones losing WhatsApp support are old models that are no longer widely used today. Nevertheless, if you possess one of these devices, it’s advisable to upgrade to a newer one, as many applications, including WhatsApp, cease supporting outdated operating systems.
If you wish to check the Android OS version on your smartphone, particularly for devices running Android OS version 4.1 or older, you can find this information in the device’s settings menu. Simply navigate to Settings > About phone > Software information, and there you’ll locate your Android version listed under the “Version” category
