WhatsApp is making changes that will affect users of certain older smartphones. These changes mean that WhatsApp will no longer work on 35 different phone models from various popular brands. This update primarily impacts devices that do not meet the app’s new minimum system requirements.
The affected phones include models from Samsung, Motorola, Huawei, Sony, LG, and Apple. For example, Samsung users with phones like the Galaxy Note 3, Galaxy S3 Mini, and Galaxy S4 Mini will be affected. Motorola’s Moto G and Moto X models are also on the list. Even some older iPhone models such as the iPhone 6 and iPhone SE will no longer be supported by WhatsApp.
WhatsApp’s decision aims to improve the app’s performance and security. However, it means that users with these older phones will no longer receive updates or security patches from WhatsApp. This leaves them vulnerable to potential security risks in the future.
The updated system requirements mean that WhatsApp will now only support devices running Android 5.0 or later, and iPhones with iOS 12 or later. Phones running on older operating systems will not be able to access the latest WhatsApp features or security updates.
If your phone is on the list of affected models, WhatsApp recommends upgrading to a newer device that meets the new system requirements. Continuing to use WhatsApp on an unsupported device could limit your access to new features and expose your data to security threats.
Users with older smartphones need to check if their device is among those losing WhatsApp support and take appropriate action to ensure continued access to the app’s services.
