WhatsApp will now only work on devices running iOS 15.1 and Android 5.1 or above. Older phones like the iPhone 5s, iPhone 6, and Samsung Galaxy S4 will no longer support WhatsApp.
Whatsapp Ban: If you are among the millions of users who start their day by sending a "Good Morning" message on WhatsApp, this news is very important for you. WhatsApp, the world's most popular messaging app, will stop working on some older smartphone models. Meta has officially compiled a list of devices on which WhatsApp support will be completely discontinued in the coming weeks.
Why is WhatsApp being discontinued on older devices?
WhatsApp, operated by Meta, ends support for older operating systems and devices every year to improve its security, speed, and feature support. The company says that older devices are not only slow, but they are also unable to support security updates and new features. In such cases, continuing support for them can also pose a threat to the security of other users.
WhatsApp's new minimum requirements
WhatsApp will now only run on devices that:
- Have Android 5.1 (Lollipop) or a later version
- Have iOS 15.1 or later software installed
This means that if your phone is on an older version, you will no longer be able to use WhatsApp. Features like messaging, calling, and status updates will stop working for you.
WhatsApp will be discontinued on these iPhone models
According to the new rules, these Apple devices will now be out of WhatsApp support:
- iPhone 5s
- iPhone 6
- iPhone 6 Plus
The latest version of iOS cannot be installed on these devices, so they will no longer receive WhatsApp support.
However, the good news is that:
- iPhone 6s
- iPhone 6s Plus
- iPhone SE (1st generation)
iOS updates can still be installed on these, so they are currently able to run WhatsApp — provided you have updated the software.
WhatsApp will also be discontinued on these Android phones
In the Android world as well, many older and popular devices will now be unable to run WhatsApp. These include:
- Samsung Galaxy S4
- Samsung Galaxy Note 3
- Sony Xperia Z1
- LG G2
- Huawei Ascend P6
- Motorola Moto G (1st Gen)
- HTC One X
All of these phones run Android 5.0 or older, which WhatsApp will no longer support.
How to check if your phone is on this list?
iPhone users:
- Go to Settings
- Tap on 'General'
- Check the iOS version from 'About'
Android users:
- Open Settings
- Go to the 'About Phone' or 'About' section
- View the software version — if it is above Android 5.1, you are safe
What does Meta's statement say?
Meta said in a statement, 'We review every year which devices and operating systems have become so old that they no longer meet the security standards and latest features of our app. Discontinuing support for such devices is a necessary step to ensure that other users have a safe and modern experience.'
What to do if your phone is on this list?
- Update software – Update your device's software if possible
- Consider getting a new device – If an update is not available, getting a new smartphone will be the only option
- Keep checking the WhatsApp website or settings – You will continue to get information about which devices will be out of support in the future
Staying updated is essential in changing technology
In today's world, when WhatsApp is not just a chat app but has become a medium for our digital identity, communication, business, and personal connections, it is essential that we keep our devices updated. Older phones not only become unable to run the app, but can also prove dangerous for data and privacy.
