Upcoming WhatsApp updates will mean some older smartphones will no longer be able to use the widely-adopted messaging app, with users told to check whether their model is affected.
WhatsApp is making changes to compatibility with operating systems that will cause the app to not load on some older smartphones, though the impact will be limited.
Only people whose phones are more than 10 years old will likely be deprived of the instant messaging service as the New Year updates roll out.
The regular WhatsApp application and WhatsApp Business will be affected by the changes.
The first update will come on Wednesday (January 1) which call time on WhatsApp supporting Android’s KitKat OS as well as any older versions.
It won’t affect everyone with KitKat on their phones, with some still able to use WhatsApp as long as their device can be updated to a more recent operating system (OS).
Some older phones no longer receive updates to their OS, meaning users can’t download the software.
The changes will initially affect a handful of Android phones, but later in 2025, WhatsApp will no longer be supported on iPhones of a similar age, the Metro reported.
From May 5, the app will no longer be usable on iOS versions earlier than 15.1. Though some iPhone users will be able to simply get the latest update and continue using the app, some models can only be updated to 12.5.7, meaning an upgrade may be required.
Models that won’t be able to use the app from May 5 are the iPhone 5s, iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus.
Whatsapp’s parent company, Meta, which also owns Facebook and Instagram, says the changes are part of regular updates and are aimed at improving app functionality and security.
Full list of Android phones currently known to be affected by the January 1 change
- 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