WhatsApp has announced plans to terminate support for several older smartphone models starting January 1, 2025. This decision will affect 19 specific devices, primarily from well-known brands including Samsung, Motorola, HTC, LG, and Sony. According to Meta Platforms, Inc., the parent company of WhatsApp, the main reason behind this cutoff is the inability of these older devices to upgrade to Android 5.0 or newer, which is necessary for the app's continued function.
The impacted smartphones are primarily those released between 2012 and 2013, including notable models like the Samsung Galaxy S3, Galaxy Note II, and Galaxy Ace 3. Similarly, devices from other brands such as the Motorola Moto G (1st generation) and HTC One X will also lose app access. Users of these models are advised to back up their conversations prior to this cutoff to retain their chat history.
Specifically, the brands and their affected models include:
- Samsung: Galaxy S3, Galaxy Note II, 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
Meta's adjustments to WhatsApp also include plans for integrating more features, particularly those leveraging artificial intelligence. These advancements necessitate more modern hardware, as outlined by the company's commitment to delivering enhanced security and functionality for users. Acknowledging the technological challenges of supporting outdated devices, Meta states, “Devices and software undergo frequent changes; we periodically review which operating systems we support and implement necessary updates.”
For Apple users, the news is similarly significant. Support for older iPhones, such as the iPhone 5s and iPhone 6, will cease on May 5, 2025. The company's strategy allows for five months of notice to give users time to update or transition to newer devices. This timeframe also serves as guidance for users to backup their chats effectively.
WABetaInfo, which specializes in WhatsApp news, emphasized the importance of this notification, stating, “WhatsApp is providing a five-month notice period, allowing users who have these old iPhones time to upgrade their devices if possible.” This suggestion, paired with Meta's efforts, points to the need for users to adapt as mobile technology evolves.
Users who find themselves with unsupported devices have several options moving forward. They can either purchase new smartphones compatible with Android 5.0 or higher or utilize WhatsApp Web via their computer for messaging, albeit with limited functionalities compared to the app. To successfully backup chat history prior to the cutoff, users are encouraged to navigate to WhatsApp settings, go to 'Chats,' select 'Chat Backup,' and then initiate the backup process.
This major transition highlights the increasing importance of keeping technology up to date. With security being among the top concerns for internet users today, having devices capable of meeting modern software demands is not just about maintaining app access, but also safeguarding personal data from vulnerabilities associated with older, unsupported systems.
While this may bring inconvenience to some, Meta's decision can be understood as part of its broader mission to offer users enhanced security and features. For those with smartphones on the chopping block, taking action sooner rather than later could prevent any disruptions to their messaging experience on WhatsApp.
