Millions of WhatsApp users may soon find themselves locked out of the popular messaging app as Meta begins phasing out support for a range of older mobile devices starting February 1, 2024. The move, a routine but impactful adjustment by the company to maintain platform security and performance, will primarily affect those still using older Android and iOS handsets [[1]]. WhatsApp maintains over two billion users globally and this shift highlights the ongoing cycle of technology and the need for device upgrades to remain connected.
WhatsApp will begin phasing out support for certain mobile devices on February 1, 2024, due to their inability to run the latest updates. The move impacts users with older handsets and could result in loss of access to the popular messaging application.
Meta’s WhatsApp routinely adjusts its system requirements to ensure optimal security, performance, and the ability to introduce new features. This isn’t a new practice for the company, but a periodic adjustment necessary for maintaining a robust and evolving platform.
Devices no longer supported will be unable to open the app, or send and receive messages, effectively cutting them off from one of the world’s most widely used communication services.
Why is WhatsApp dropping support for certain phones?
WhatsApp assesses devices running older software with a limited user base to determine which ones to discontinue support for. According to the company, this decision isn’t arbitrary, but a response to the ongoing evolution of smartphones.
Outdated software on a mobile device prevents it from receiving critical updates and new app features. Beyond functionality, older software often experiences diminished performance, leading to slowdowns and unexpected crashes. However, the most significant concern is security, as these devices become increasingly vulnerable to viruses, malware, and other attacks that compromise user data.
WhatsApp states in its Help Center that users will receive notifications within the app before support for their operating system is dropped, with multiple reminders to update their software. Users receiving these alerts should check their device’s software version in the “About phone” section (Android) or “Information” section (iPhone) to determine if their device is affected.
The following phone models are currently identified as not meeting WhatsApp’s minimum operating system requirements:
Samsung– Galaxy S3, S4, S4 Mini, S5, Note 2, Core, Trend, J2, Ace 4
LG– Optimus L3, L5, L7, F5, L3 II Dual, L5 II
Motorola– Moto G (1st gen), Moto E (1st gen)
Sony– Xperia Z2, Z3, M
HTC– Desire 500, One M8
Apple– iPhone 5, 5c, 5s, 6, 6 Plus
