WhatsApp to End Support for Older Android Devices on 1st January, 2025

Meta has officially announced that WhatsApp will no longer support older Android devices running Android KitKat (version 4.4) or older starting on January 1, 2025.

This decision affects smartphones that have been in use for over a decade, as many of them no longer meet the requirements for running WhatsApp’s latest features and functionalities.

As technology evolves, WhatsApp has been adding more advanced capabilities, including AI-driven tools and enhanced media support, which demand more powerful hardware.

Devices running outdated operating systems simply can’t handle these newer features, prompting Meta to end support for these handsets.

The list of affected devices includes popular models such as

Samsung : Galaxy S3, Galaxy Note 2, Galaxy Ace 3, Galaxy S4 Mini
Sony : Xperia Z, Xperia SP, Xperia T, Xperia V
HTC : One X, One X+, Desire 500, Desire 601
LG : Optimus G, Nexus 4, G2 Mini, L90
Motorola : Moto G (1st Gen), Razr HD, Moto E 2014

as well as several other older phones from manufacturers like LG, Sony, and Motorola. If you’re still using one of these devices, it’s important to know that WhatsApp will stop working on your phone after the January 2025 deadline.

This means you will no longer be able to send or receive messages, share media, or access your chat history unless you upgrade to a newer device that is compatible with WhatsApp’s latest updates.

For those who are still using these devices, backing up your WhatsApp data before the cut-off date is essential. To do so, go to Settings > Chats > Chat Backup within the WhatsApp app, and tap on “Back Up Now”.

This will save your chat history and media to Google Drive or your device’s storage, allowing you to transfer them to a newer smartphone when you upgrade. Without this backup, all your conversations and media files will be lost permanently.

It’s also worth noting that Meta previously made a similar move for iPhones, dropping support for devices running iOS versions older than 15.1. For iPhone users, support will end in May 2025, giving them a little more time to upgrade.

In conclusion, if you’re still using an older Android phone, now is the time to start preparing for an upgrade to ensure uninterrupted access to WhatsApp and avoid losing your valuable chat history.