The New Year may be a time for fresh beginnings, but frustration is in store for those who like to squeeze every last drop of mileage out of a phone.
Changes to WhatsApp’s compatibility with operating systems mean some older smartphones will no longer be able to load the app.
The number of people affected by this will not be particularly large: only those with enough talent for technological TLC to have kept their devices in working condition for more than 10 years need worry.
But if you’re using a device that old, it’s worth reading on to see if it’s on the list.
The first compatibility update will come on January 1, 2025, when WhatsApp will stop supporting Android’s KitKat OS in addition to any older versions.
Some users who still have KitKat on their phones will still be able to use WhatsApp provided their device can be updated to a more recent OS.
However there are a number of older phone models which are no longer provided with official updates by their maker.
This means they can’t be updated to a more recent OS unless the user attempts certain types of DIY tinkering which would void the phone’s warranty and insurance and risk ‘bricking’ it (rendering it inoperable.)
Here is a list of Android phones known to be affected by the January 1 change at the time of publishing:
Meta, which owns WhatsApp, says the changes are part of regular updates to ensure the app stays secure and functional while working with newer phones.
Later in 2025, WhatsApp will stop being supported for iPhones of a similar age.
From May 5, the app will stop working on iOS versions earlier than 15.1.
While some iPhone users with older iOSes can simply update their phones, some which are still in use can only be updated to iOS 12.5.7.
The phones in this category that can still use WhatsApp now but won’t be able to from May 5 are the iPhone 5s, iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus.
These changes affect both the regular WhatsApp application and WhatsApp Business, which has the same system requirements.
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