WhatsApp to Stop Supporting Older Android Devices in 2025
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Starting January 1, 2025, WhatsApp will no longer be compatible with Android phones running operating systems older than KitKat. This decision by Meta,the parent company of WhatsApp,comes as the messaging app continues to evolve and introduce advanced features requiring more robust hardware.
As WhatsApp incorporates cutting-edge technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities, older devices may struggle to keep up.The shift necessitates users of affected phones to upgrade to newer models to continue accessing WhatsApp services.
Affected devices
Several popular smartphone models are among those that will lose WhatsApp support. According to Phone Arena,the list includes:
- Samsung Galaxy S3
- Samsung Galaxy Note 2
- Samsung Galaxy S4 Mini
- Motorola Moto G (Generation 1)
- Motorola Razr HD
- Moto E 2014
- HTC One X
- HTC one X+
- HTC Desire 500
- HTC Desire 601
- LG Optimus G
- LG Nexus 4
- LG G2 mini
- LG L90
- Sony Xperia Z
- Sony Xperia SP
- Sony Xperia T
- Sony Xperia V
Users of these devices are advised to back up their WhatsApp data to a new phone as soon as possible to avoid permanently losing chat history and media.
Notably, similar changes are planned for iPhone users, with support ending for devices running iOS versions older than 15.1 in May 2025.
### WhatsApp Dropping Support for older Android Devices
#### An Interview with Tech Analyst Jane Doe
**Archyde:** Jane, thanks for joining us today. WhatsApp has just announced it will be discontinuing support for Android devices running operating systems older than KitKat starting in 2025. What are your initial thoughts on this move by Meta?
**Jane Doe:** It’s certainly a critically important progress. WhatsApp has always been known for its wide compatibility, but the reality is that the app is evolving, incorporating advanced features like AI capabilities that require more processing power. Older devices simply can’t keep up.
**Archyde:** So, this is a case of necessary progress, even if it leaves some users behind?
**Jane Doe:** That’s a fair assessment.While it’s unfortunate for users of affected devices, the majority of users have likely already upgraded to newer phones. Meta needs to ensure its platform remains secure and continues to offer a smooth user experience.
**Archyde:** The list of affected devices includes some popular models from samsung, Motorola, HTC, and LG, to name a few. many people might still be using these phones. What would you advise users who find themselves in this situation?
**Jane Doe:** My primary advice would be to back up all their WhatsApp data as soon as possible. There’s a simple process for doing this within the app settings. Once that’s done, they should consider upgrading to a newer device that supports the latest WhatsApp version.
**Archyde:** Do you anticipate a similar trend across other popular apps?
**Jane Doe:** This is likely the first of many such announcements. As technology advances, older devices will struggle to keep pace. Users should expect to see more apps phasing out support for older operating systems in the coming years.
**Archyde:** what are your thoughts on the role of companies like Meta in supporting older devices? Is there a responsibility here, or is it simply a matter of business decisions?
**Jane Doe:** This is a complex question. On one hand, companies have a responsibility to provide secure and functional services. On the other hand, they also need to innovate and move forward. Perhaps there’s a middle ground, where support is extended for a longer period but with limited functionality. This is a debate that’s likely to continue as technology evolves.
**What do you think? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below. Is it fair for companies to discontinue support for older devices? What other options could be explored? We want to hear from you.**
## Archyde Interview: WhatsApp Drops Support for Older Android Devices
**Archyde:** Welcome back to Archyde Tech Talk. Today, we’re discussing a recent announcement from WhatsApp that’s causing quite a stir in the mobile world: the messaging giant will no longer support Android devices running operating systems older than KitKat starting January 1, 2025. To break down what this means for users,we’re joined by tech expert,[Alex Reed Name].
**[Alex Reed name]:** Thanks for having me.
**Archyde:** So, let’s jump right into it. Why is WhatsApp making this decision?
**[Alex Reed Name]:** This is a common trend we see with software companies. As technology advances and apps become more feature-rich, they require more powerful hardware to operate smoothly. WhatsApp is incorporating AI and other cutting-edge technologies, putting a strain on older devices running on outdated operating systems like Android versions older than KitKat.
**Archyde:** What does this mean for users with affected devices?
**[Alex Reed Name]:** Sadly, they will no longer be able to use WhatsApp after the deadline. This means losing access to chats, calls, and all other features. My advice would be to back up your data as soon as possible and consider upgrading to a newer device.
**Archyde:** Can you give us some examples of the types of phones that will be affected?
**[Alex Reed Name]:** [Reference to the list of affected devices from the article]. As you can see, this includes several popular older models from Samsung, Motorola, HTC, LG, and Sony.
**Archyde:** What about iPhone users? Are they also affected?
**[Alex Reed name]:** Yes, but a bit later. iPhone users with devices running iOS versions older than 15.1 will lose WhatsApp support starting May 2025 [[2](https://www.archyde.com/telegram-provides-reactions-feature-on-messages-and-qr-codes-know-the-full-list/)].
**Archyde:** This certainly isn’t great news for users with older devices. any final thoughts for our viewers?
**[Alex Reed Name]:** These changes are a reminder that technology constantly evolves. While it can be frustrating to have to upgrade, it’s critically important to remember that these advancements frequently enough bring new features and security improvements.
**Archyde:** Wise words. Thank you for joining us, [Alex Reed Name], and sharing your insights. And to our viewers, be sure to check out our website for more articles on this topic.
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