In a move that might impact millions of users, WhatsApp will cease support for over 35 smartphone models by the end of this year. This decision affects a range of older devices, rendering them incompatible with the popular messaging app and prompting users to upgrade to newer models to continue using the service.
The discontinuation is part of WhatsApp’s routine practice of phasing out support for older devices to ensure optimal performance and security. Time and time again, the Meta-owned platform has reiterated that maintaining the app on outdated hardware hinders their ability to implement new features and security updates effectively. This latest update primarily impacts smartphones that are several years old, running outdated versions of Android and iOS operating systems.
WhatsApp to end support for these devices – Full list
Among the affected models are several models from Samsung as well as various older LG, Sony, and Huawei devices. The complete list includes models from a broad spectrum of manufacturers, reflecting the diverse range of hardware no longer able to meet WhatsApp’s evolving technical requirements.
| Brand | Phones |
| Samsung | Galaxy Ace Plus, Galaxy Core, Galaxy Express 2, Galaxy Grand, Galaxy Note 3 N9005 LTE, Galaxy Note 3 Neo LTE+, Galaxy S 19500, Galaxy S3 Mini VE, Galaxy S4 Active, Galaxy S4 mini I9190, Galaxy S4 mini I9192 Duos, Galaxy S4 mini I9195 LTE, Galaxy S4 Zoom |
| Motorola | Moto G, Moto X |
| Apple | iPhone 5, iPhone 5C, iPhone 6, iPhone 6S Plus, iPhone 6S, iPhone SE |
| Huawei | Ascend P6 S, Ascend G525, Huawei C199, Huawei GX1s, Huawei Y625 |
| Lenovo | Lenovo 46600, Lenovo A858T, Lenovo P70, Lenovo S890, Lenovo A820 |
| Sony | Xperia Z1, Xperia E3, Xperia M |
| LG | Optimus 4X HD P880, Optimus G, Optimus G Pro, Optimus L7 |
| ZTE | ZTE V956, ZTE UMi X2, ZTE Grand S Flex, ZTE Grand Memo |
| Others | Faea F1, THL W8, Archos 53 Platinum, Wiko Cink Five, Wiko Darknight |
What next?
This change is necessary to continue providing a secure and reliable messaging experience. It is expected that affected individuals will receive notifications well in advance, urging them to upgrade their devices to avoid any disruption in service. WhatsApp’s support page provides detailed information on how to transfer chat histories to new devices.
For users relying on older smartphones, this transition may pose an inconvenience. However, it also underscores the rapid pace of technological advancement and the necessity for software to evolve alongside hardware improvements. While some users may find the need to purchase a new device burdensome, others see it as an opportunity to upgrade to more advanced technology with enhanced features and capabilities.
Time to upgrade
This phase-out follows WhatsApp’s earlier moves to discontinue support for older systems. As technology continues to advance, such decisions are becoming more frequent across various software platforms, highlighting the importance of keeping hardware relatively up-to-date to ensure compatibility with essential applications. The current minimum system requirement to run WhatsApp are Android 5.0 or later and iOS 12 or later.
As the deadline approaches, affected users are advised to review the list of unsupported devices and take necessary steps to upgrade their hardware, ensuring uninterrupted access to WhatsApp’s messaging services.
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