Meta, the company behind WhatsApp, is discontinuing support for these older devices because they lack the hardware capabilities to support the app's evolving features and functionalities. As WhatsApp continues to add new features, such as AI functionalities, it needs more powerful hardware to ensure a smooth user experience.
Some of the popular phone models that will be affected by this change include the below:
Samsung Galaxy S3
Samsung Galaxy Note 2
Samsung Galaxy S4 Mini
Motorola Moto G (1st Gen)
Motorola Razr HD
Moto E 2014
HTC One X
HTC One X+
HTCDesire 500
HTCDesire 601
LG Optimus G
LG Nexus 4
LG G2 Mini
LG L90
Sony Xperia Z
Sony Xperia SP
Sony Xperia T
Sony Xperia V
If you're currently using one of these older devices, it's important to back up your WhatsApp data to a newer device before the deadline. Otherwise, you'll lose all your media and chat history from WhatsApp.
This isn't the first time Meta has announced plans to end support for older devices. A few months ago, the company announced that it would stop supporting iPhones running on iOS older than version 15.1.
Older iPhones will also stop supporting WhatsApp next year | Image credit — PhoneArena
For iPhone users, however, the deadline to upgrade to a newer device is May 2025. This gives iPhone users a bit more time to prepare for the change compared to Android users. However, it's still important to be aware of the deadline and to start planning for an upgrade if you're still using an older iPhone.
The decision to end support for older devices is likely to affect a significant number of users, particularly in developing countries where older phones are still common. However, as these tech companies continue innovating and diving deeper into AI, I'm afraid it will become a necessity to update even more often than in the past — at least if having the most recent version of an app is a priority. It's a reminder that technology is now moving very quickly, and we will need to make some choices in order to avoid losing access to our favorite apps and services.
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Johanna 'Jojo the Techie' is a skilled mobile technology expert with over 15 years of hands-on experience, specializing in the Google ecosystem and Pixel devices. Known for her user-friendly approach, she leverages her vast tech support background to provide accessible and insightful coverage on latest technology trends. As a recognized thought leader and official member of #TeamPixel, Johanna ensures she stays at the forefront of Google services and products, making her a reliable source for all things Pixel and ChromeOS.
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