At least once and often twice a year, many mobile phone models become obsolete… at least for certain applications. The updating of operating systems and the applications themselves means that they require certain capabilities to fulfill certain functions or to avoid security problems. This is precisely what will occur from January 1, 2025 with the latest WhatsApp update: many mobile phones will no longer be able to use this app.
According to a statement published by the WhatsApp Help Center, “We continually stop supporting older devices and operating systems. We do this to support newer devices and keep up to date with the latest technological advances. We will inform you if we stop supporting your device or operating system. We will remind you several times to update your device so you can continue using WhatsApp.”
This means that if you receive app update messages, you may be at risk of not being able to use it, since there are requirements which are “essential so that users can take advantage of all the features and updates that we implement on a regular basis.”
Regarding Android, the Meta app indicates that for now it is Compatible with devices running Android 5.0 or later. As for those who have iOS as their operating system (iPhone), WhatsApp requires iOS 12 or newer versions.
With this in mind, These are the mobile phones that will no longer be able to use WhatsApp:
Samsung: Galaxy S3, Galaxy Note 2, Galaxy Ace 3, Galaxy S4 Mini
Motorola: Moto G (1st generation), Razr HD, Moto E 2014
LG: Optimus G, Nexus 4, G2 Mini, L90
Sony: Xperia Z, Xperia SP, Xperia T, Xperia V
iPhone: iPhone 5, iPhone 5c
HTC: One X, One X+, Desire 500, Desire 601.
Anyway, in case this happens, we will receive a notification in the application to update the system. Although it is also true that, if the smartphone is an “old” model, it may not support updating the operating system. And then we will have a problem.