Meta has announced that WhatsApp will no longer support a range of Android devices running on the KitKat OS or older versions, starting January 1, 2025.
This move is part of the company’s regular updates to ensure compatibility with newer technologies and maintain the app’s security and functionality.
Android KitKat, which debuted in 2013, has gradually fallen out of use as most smartphones now operate on significantly newer versions of Android. Meta’s decision to phase out support for KitKat reflects the challenges of maintaining backward compatibility while advancing features for modern operating systems. The company stated that older platforms often lack the capabilities required to support new updates, posing security risks and limiting functionality. Â The discontinuation of support means that WhatsApp will no longer provide updates, bug fixes, or security patches for affected devices.
The decision impacts several devices, including some models from prominent brands like Samsung, LG, and Sony, that were released over a decade ago. Users are encouraged to upgrade to devices running newer Android versions to continue accessing WhatsApp services. Here is the full list of Android phones that will not be able to access WhatsApp in a few days.
- 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
This is not the first time Meta has ended support for older operating systems. The company periodically reviews its minimum requirements for Android and iOS to ensure the app remains compatible with current security standards and features. In recent years, similar moves have been made to phase out older iOS devices and earlier Android versions.
WhatsApp will end support for these iPhones
WhatsApp has announced that it will stop supporting older iOS versions starting in 2025. From May 5 onwards, devices running iOS versions earlier than 15.1 will no longer be able to access the app, including through older beta versions on TestFlight. While WhatsApp currently supports iOS 12 and above, the upcoming changes will require iOS 15.1 as the minimum version for continued functionality. To give users time to adapt, WhatsApp is providing a five-month notice period, allowing them to update their devices or explore other options if their hardware cannot support the latest iOS versions.
This update will mainly affect users of older iPhones, specifically the iPhone 5s, iPhone 6, and iPhone 6 Plus, which are limited to iOS 12.5.7. These models, released over a decade ago, represent a small segment of WhatsApp’s user base. For users with newer iPhones still running older software, upgrading to iOS 15.1 or higher will ensure uninterrupted access to WhatsApp.
The changes will impact both the standard WhatsApp app and WhatsApp Business, as both rely on the same system requirements. With this move, WhatsApp aims to enhance performance, security, and compatibility for users on modern devices.
