WhatsApp to End Support for Old Android and iOS Devices in 2025

By: Bhumika

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Updated on: 23-Dec-2024

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Key Highlights

• WhatsApp will stop working on Android devices running KitKat or older versions starting January 1, 2025, due to outdated software limitations and security concerns.
• Affected devices include models from Samsung, LG, Motorola, HTC, and Sony released over a decade ago.
• Support for older iOS versions will also end by May 2025, requiring iOS 15.1 or higher for uninterrupted access.

Starting next year, WhatsApp will discontinue support for several out-of-date iOS and Android devices to improve security and roll out new features. The messaging app will no longer be available on Android phones running KitKat or earlier as of January 1, 2025. Likewise, as of May 5, 2025, iPhones running iOS versions lower than 15.1 will no longer be supported.

Why the Change?

Launched in 2013, Android KitKat is already more than ten years old and does not have the features required to cope with WhatsApp's latest updates. In the same way, outdated iOS versions present security threats and are becoming less compatible with contemporary software features. WhatsApp intends to concentrate on improving user experience and guaranteeing optimal safety for devices running contemporary operating systems by ending support for these platforms.

Affected Android Devices

Here are some of the Android devices that will no longer support WhatsApp:

Changes for iOS Devices

WhatsApp will require iOS 15.1 or later for both its normal app and WhatsApp Business as of May 5, 2025. Older iPhone models that are only compatible with iOS 12.5.7, such as the iPhone 5s, iPhone 6, and iPhone 6 Plus, will be the primary targets of this. To keep using the app, users are urged to update their handsets or move to newer models.

What Users Should Do

• Android Users: Upgrade to a device running Android 5.0 or later.
• iOS Users: Ensure their iPhones are updated to iOS 15.1 or newer.

Looking Ahead

The choice made by WhatsApp is indicative of its emphasis on security and innovation. To ensure that users have a seamless and safe experience, the company regularly updates the necessities for its app to keep up with the most recent developments in technology.