Meta has announced that WhatsApp will no longer support many Android devices running KitKat OS or older versions from January 1, 2025. The move is part of the company’s regular updates to ensure compatibility with new technologies and maintain the security of the app. Efficiency.

Android KitKat, which debuted in 2013, has gradually fallen out of use as most smartphones now run on significantly newer versions of Android. Meta’s decision to phase out support for KitKat reflects the challenges of maintaining backward compatibility while porting features to modern operating systems. The company said older platforms often lack the capabilities needed to support new updates, creating security risks and limiting functionality. Discontinuing support means that WhatsApp will no longer provide updates, bug fixes, or security patches for affected devices.

The decision will affect many devices, including some models from major brands like Samsung, LG and Sony that were released a decade ago. Users are encouraged to upgrade to devices running newer Android versions to continue accessing WhatsApp services. Here is the complete 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 generation), 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 that Meta has ended support for older operating systems. The company periodically reviews its minimum requirements for Android and iOS to ensure that apps remain compatible with current security standards and features. In recent years, similar steps have been taken to phase out older iOS devices and older Android versions.

WhatsApp will end support for these iPhones

WhatsApp has announced that it will stop supporting older iOS versions from 2025. Starting May 5, devices running iOS versions prior to 15.1 will no longer be able to access the app, including 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 device or explore other options if their hardware cannot support the latest iOS versions.

This update will primarily 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 a decade ago, represent a small portion of WhatsApp’s user base. For users with new iPhones that are still running older software, upgrading to iOS 15.1 or higher will ensure uninterrupted access to WhatsApp.

The changes will affect 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.