WhatsApp, the world’s most popular messaging app owned by Meta Inc., has made headlines for its upcoming changes affecting smartphone users. Starting from January 1, 2025, the app will cease to function on 19 older smartphone models deemed obsolete. This landmark decision reflects WhatsApp's commitment to enhancing user experience through updated features and improved security.
From the onset of the new year, WhatsApp will no longer be available on smartphones running Android operating systems earlier than version 5.0. This means several models released around 2012 and 2013 will be affected, including popular brands such as Samsung, Motorola, HTC, LG, and Sony.
The full list of Android devices set to lose WhatsApp support includes:
- 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
Meta has stated this move is part of their regular update process as older devices do not support the necessary operating system updates needed for new features and security enhancements. "Dispositivi e software sono soggetti a frequenti cambiamenti, pertanto rivediamo periodicamente quali sistemi operativi supportiamo ed eseguiamo gli aggiornamenti necessari," the company explained.
For users of iPhone models, the situation is slightly different yet equally impactful. On May 5, 2025, WhatsApp will discontinue support for older iPhones including the iPhone 5s, iPhone 6, and iPhone 6 Plus, which can only be updated to iOS version 12.5.7. The app will require iOS 15.1 or later for continued functionality.
Users who currently possess these listed smartphones should take decisive action to maintain their access to WhatsApp. The first step is to back up existing chats to prevent any loss of important conversations. To perform this backup on Android, users should navigate to Settings, then Chats, and select Chat Backup, before hitting the 'Back Up' button. For iPhone users, the process is similar—open WhatsApp, tap on the Settings tab, select Chats, then tap on Chat Backup and proceed with backing up.
It is important for users to understand the motivations behind Meta’s decision. With the rapid pace of technological advancement, maintaining support for obsolete devices has proven challenging. Such devices often lack the hardware needed to utilize the latest features and security protocols, putting user data at risk. WhatsApp aims to focus its resources on devices capable of running modern software, ensuring both performance efficiency and security for its users.
For those unable to upgrade immediately, some alternate options could provide temporary solutions, like utilizing WhatsApp Web for chat access on supported browsers. Nonetheless, transitioning to newer devices will offer the best experience with the app.
With technology rapidly advancing, this marks the end of an era for many smartphone users who have relied on WhatsApp for communication. The discontinuation of support for older devices serves as both a warning and guidance for users to remain up to date with their technology to maintain seamless connectivity with friends, family, and colleagues.
Transitioning to more recent devices is the recommended course of action for those affected, ensuring access to all the latest features and security updates WhatsApp has to offer. The ability to enjoy uninterrupted messaging requires vigilance on the part of users who wish to keep up with the ever-evolving digital communication standards.
