USERS of some Android phones now face the possibility of not being able to use WhatsApp, the widely used messaging app effective 1st January 2025.
Affected phones are those running older operating systems that can no longer be upgraded.
Reports from Metro.co.uk confirmed that WhatsApp’s compatibility changes will officially take effect on New Year’s Day, marking the end of support for Android’s KitKat OS and earlier versions.
Affected phones are those still running on KitKat OS or older, WhatsApp will no longer load, leaving users unable to send messages, make calls, or join group chats. Some smartphones can escape this fate if their OS can be updated, but not everyone will be so lucky.
For Android users, the following devices are at risk if they can’t upgrade:
Samsung: Galaxy S3, Galaxy Note 2, Galaxy Ace 3, Galaxy S4 Mini
Motorola: Moto G (1st Gen), 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 users are not left out of the shake-up. Starting 5 May k2025, WhatsApp will stop working on iPhones running iOS versions earlier than 15.1. While some older iPhones like the iPhone 5s, 6, and 6 Plus can be updated, others that can only upgrade to iOS 12.5.7 will be permanently affected.
Meta, the parent company of WhatsApp, explained that these changes are part of their regular updates to maintain security and ensure the app works smoothly with newer devices. Both the standard WhatsApp and WhatsApp Business apps are affected by these system upgrades.
Eighteen-Eleven Media