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As of 2025, WhatsApp Will Stop Working on Several Phone Models. See Which Devices Will Be Affected and How to Prepare for the Change.
Starting in January 2025, WhatsApp will stop working on several older mobile phone models. Users of outdated devices will have to choose between updating their operating system or switching devices to continue using the app.
The End of the Line for Old Phones
The deadline is set: starting January 1, 2025, WhatsApp will no longer be compatible with several smartphone models running outdated versions of Android and iOS. Among the affected models are the Samsung Galaxy S3 and the iPhone 5s, which were once market leaders. According to the company, this decision is necessary to ensure improvements in user experience.
The change is related to the end of support for Android KitKat and versions of iOS 15.1 or earlier. This means that if your device is still running these versions, it will be impossible to access WhatsApp.
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Complete List of Affected Phones
Android
The following models will lose access to the app:
- Samsung: Galaxy S3, Galaxy Note 2, Galaxy Ace 3, Galaxy S4 Mini.
- Motorola: Moto G (1st generation), 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, Xperia SP, Xperia T, Xperia V.
iPhone
Among Apple devices, the following will no longer be compatible starting May 5, 2025, unless updated to a more recent version of iOS:
- iPhone 5s
- iPhone 6
- iPhone 6 Plus
Some of these devices may be updated to supported versions of the operating system. However, for many of the listed models, the only solution will be to purchase a new device.
Why Is WhatsApp Doing This?
WhatsApp explained that the updates aim to focus efforts on more modern devices, taking advantage of technological advances that improve the security and functionality of the app.
For phones with outdated systems, maintaining the app represents a risk, as security vulnerabilities become more evident over time.
Although the affected users represent a small fraction of the app’s global user base, the company emphasizes that the change is essential to ensure data protection and prevent future features from being compromised.
On social media, some users reacted humorously. “They still supported KitKat? I thought that was history!” commented a user on Reddit.
What You Should Do?
If your phone is on the list, it’s time to consider an upgrade. With cyberattacks becoming increasingly sophisticated, keeping an old device is like leaving your front door unlocked.
Even if some versions can be updated, it’s important to consider that performance may not be optimal.
For those still hoping WhatsApp will backtrack on this decision, the advice is simple: don’t count on it. The update is already underway, and the clock is ticking.
Are you ready to say goodbye to your trusty tech companion? If not, it might be time to start planning for a switch to a more current model. After all, nobody wants to lose access to one of the most used apps in the world.
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