As we step into the New Year, it’s time for fresh starts and new resolutions—but for some smartphone users, 2025 will bring an unwelcome surprise. If you’ve been holding onto an older device and squeezing every bit of life out of it, you might find yourself facing frustration as WhatsApp announces upcoming compatibility changes.
While this won’t affect the majority of users, those with smartphones over 10 years old will need to take notice, as these devices will no longer support WhatsApp in 2025. If you fall into this category, it’s worth checking if your phone is on the list.
WhatsApp Drops Support for Android KitKat OS and Older Versions
Starting January 1, 2025, WhatsApp will cease to function on Android devices running KitKat or earlier versions of the operating system. If your phone still has KitKat, you may still be able to use WhatsApp, provided you can update your device to a newer OS. However, many older models have long since stopped receiving official updates from their manufacturers, leaving users with limited options.
Attempting to manually update these phones may seem like a solution, but it comes with significant risks, including voiding your warranty and potentially “bricking” your phone, rendering it unusable.
Here are the Android models that will lose WhatsApp support on January 1, 2025:
- Samsung: Galaxy S3, Galaxy Note 2, Galaxy Ace 3, Galaxy S4 Mini
- Motorola: Moto G (1st Gen), Razr HD, Moto E 2014
- HTC: One X, One X+, Desire 500, Desire 601
- LG: Optimus G, Nexus 4, G2 Mini, L90
- Sony: Xperia Z, Xperia SP, Xperia T, Xperia V
Meta (WhatsApp's parent company) says this update is necessary to ensure the app stays secure, functional, and compatible with newer smartphones.
iPhones Affected by WhatsApp Compatibility Change in 2025
Later in the year, iPhone users will also feel the effects of WhatsApp’s new compatibility requirements. Starting May 5, 2025, the app will no longer work on iPhones running iOS versions earlier than 15.1. While some users can update their devices to a newer iOS version, phones like the iPhone 5s, iPhone 6, and iPhone 6 Plus are limited to iOS 12.5.7 and will no longer support WhatsApp.
This change applies to both the regular WhatsApp app and WhatsApp Business, as they share the same system requirements.
What This Means for You
If your device is on the list, you’ll need to consider upgrading to continue using WhatsApp in 2025. While these updates can be frustrating for those holding onto older devices, staying up-to-date with the latest version of WhatsApp is essential for both security and functionality.
It’s time to check your phone’s OS and start planning your upgrade if you don’t want to miss out on WhatsApp’s features next year!
.jpeg)
.jpeg)
.jpeg)
.jpeg)
