WhatsApp to End Support for KaiOS Devices by February 2025 Impacting Feature Phone Users

Highlights

• WhatsApp to discontinue support for KaiOS devices by February 2025
• New users and logouts can’t access WhatsApp on KaiOS from June 25, 2024
• App removed from KaiOS store, halting new downloads or installations
• Affected devices include JioPhone, Nokia 800 Tough, 2720 Flip, and more

In a move that marks the end of an era for many feature phone users, WhatsApp has announced plans to discontinue support for KaiOS devices by February 2025.

Phased Withdrawal

WhatsApp’s departure from KaiOS is not abrupt but rather a phased process:

1. As of June 25, 2024, new users or those who have logged out cannot access WhatsApp on KaiOS devices.
2. Existing users who logged in before June 25, 2024, can continue using the app until early 2025.
3. WhatsApp has ceased updates and maintenance for the KaiOS version.
4. The app has been removed from the KaiOS store, preventing new downloads or installations.

Affected Devices and User Impact

This change impacts a wide range of popular feature phones, including:

• JioPhone and JioPhone 2
• Nokia models: 800 Tough, 2720 Flip, 2760 Flip, 2780 Flip, 6300 4G, 8000 4G, and 8110 4G
• Select Alcatel and Energizer models

Users of these devices face the prospect of losing access to one of the world’s most popular messaging platforms, potentially forcing them to consider upgrading to smartphones or finding alternative communication methods.

WhatsApp’s decision to end KaiOS support follows a pattern of discontinuing support for older operating systems.

In November 2021, the company dropped support for Android 4.0.3, iOS 9, and KaiOS 2.5.0.

This latest move signifies a shift in focus towards more advanced platforms, likely driven by security concerns and the challenges of maintaining compatibility with older systems.

The announcement has sparked concern and frustration among KaiOS users.

Some Reddit users reported issues with logging in and encountered error messages.

A few tech-savvy users discovered temporary workarounds, such as installing older versions of WhatsApp and manipulating device dates.

However, these solutions are not officially supported and may not work long-term.

What’s Next

As the February 2025 deadline approaches, KaiOS users face important decisions:

1. Upgrade to a smartphone to continue using WhatsApp
2. Explore alternative messaging apps compatible with KaiOS
3. Consider reverting to traditional SMS and voice calls

For many in developing countries where feature phones remain popular due to their affordability and long battery life, this change could have significant implications for how they communicate and access information.

While WhatsApp has not issued an official statement explaining the rationale behind this decision, it’s likely driven by a combination of technical limitations, security concerns, and the evolving landscape of mobile technology.

FAQs

When will WhatsApp stop supporting KaiOS devices?

WhatsApp will discontinue support for KaiOS devices by February 2025, with a phased process starting on June 25, 2024.

Which devices are affected by WhatsApp’s decision to end support for KaiOS?

Affected devices include JioPhone and JioPhone 2, Nokia models such as 800 Tough, 2720 Flip, 2760 Flip, 2780 Flip, 6300 4G, 8000 4G, 8110 4G, and select Alcatel and Energizer models.

What changes will existing KaiOS users experience with WhatsApp?

Existing KaiOS users who logged in before June 25, 2024, can continue using WhatsApp until early 2025, but the app will no longer receive updates or maintenance.

Why is WhatsApp discontinuing support for KaiOS devices?

While WhatsApp has not provided an official explanation, the decision is likely due to technical limitations, security concerns, and the evolving landscape of mobile technology.

What alternatives do KaiOS users have after WhatsApp support ends?

KaiOS users can upgrade to smartphones, explore alternative messaging apps compatible with KaiOS, or consider using traditional SMS and voice calls.

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