WhatsApp, the popular messaging platform owned by Meta, will stop working on devices with Android KitKat and older operating systems as of January 1, 2025. This decision was made because these devices could no longer meet modern hardware and software requirements.
Among the devices that will be removed from WhatsApp’s support scope are old models of brands such as Samsung, Motorola, HTC, LG and Sony. Here are some devices that will be affected by this decision:
- 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
If you still prefer one of these devices for daily use or use it as a backup phone, you need to move your WhatsApp data to a newer device. Otherwise, your media files and chat history may be permanently deleted after January 1, 2025.
Meta plans to introduce artificial intelligence (AI) features and more advanced functions on WhatsApp. To implement such innovations, devices with more powerful hardware are required. Older Android versions are inadequate to meet these technological requirements.
On the other hand, Meta recently announced a similar step for iPhone devices. iPhones running iOS 15.1 and older will receive WhatsApp support until May 2025; However, after this date, support for these devices will be discontinued.
WhatsApp recommends its users to switch to new devices
WhatsApp users are recommended to switch to more modern devices now to prevent possible data loss. It is especially important to complete the backup process completely, to protect chat history and media files.
Meta constantly adds new features to WhatsApp to improve user experience and make the application more functional. In this process, the aim is to end support for old devices and direct resources to more modern technologies.