Highlight

• WhatsApp will stop supporting smartphones running on Android 5.0 or below starting October 24, 2023.
• Check and update your smartphone to its latest Android version to avoid discontinuation.

WhatsApp frequently updates its list of supported devices. In December 2022, it discontinued support for certain smartphones.

Starting next month, a fresh wave of Android phones will no longer be compatible with this popular messaging platform owned by Meta.

Here’s everything you need to know about the upcoming change.

WhatsApp, the widely used messaging app, announced that it will cease operations on phones lacking Android OS 5.0 or higher, beginning next month.

According to a statement on its FAQ page, the Meta-owned app clarified that starting October 24, 2023, only Android devices running version 5.0 or later will receive support.

The messaging platform will maintain its support for iPhones operating on iOS 12 and newer, as well as KaiOS 2.5.0 and above.
This includes devices like JioPhone and JioPhone 2.

This policy has remained consistent since December last year, offering reassurance to individuals using devices with iOS 12 and KaiOS 2.5.0.

While there is speculation about potential changes by the end of this year, no definite plans have been confirmed yet.

Presently, the app offers support for Android devices that fulfil the following criteria:

• The WhatsApp user’s Android phone operates on OS 4.1 or a newer version.
• The Android phone can receive SMS or calls during the verification process.

WhatsApp follows a practice of discontinuing support for older operating systems to allocate resources to more recent ones, keeping pace with technological advancements.

Users whose operating systems are no longer supported will receive notifications and reminders, encouraging them to upgrade their devices to ensure uninterrupted use of WhatsApp.

Although a minority of users will be impacted by this change, it is highly advisable for individuals using Android devices to consider upgrading their phones for enhanced security and privacy.

If your phone is not running the latest Android version, it’s imperative to update your device promptly to ensure optimal performance and safety.

FAQs

Q1. How to check the Android OS version of your phone?

Answer. To check the Android OS version of your phone, go to “Settings” on your phone, then select “About Phone” or “System,” and look for “Android Version” to see your phone’s OS version.

Q2. How to update the Android version of your smartphone?

Answer. To update the Android version of your smartphone, follow these steps:

• Navigate to the “Settings” app on your smartphone, usually represented by a gear icon in the app drawer or notification shade.
• Scroll Down and Select “Software Update” or “System”: Look for the option called “Software Update” or “System” in the Settings menu.
• Check for Updates: Within the Software Update or System section, there will be an option like “Check for Updates” or “Software Update.” Tap on it.
• If an update is available, your phone will prompt you to download and install it. Make sure your device is connected to Wi-Fi and has sufficient battery life, then follow the on-screen instructions.

Q3. How to know if I have the latest version of WhatsApp or not?

Answer. To check if you have the latest version of WhatsApp, go to your device’s app store (Google Play Store for Android or App Store for iPhone). Search for WhatsApp. If you see an “Update” button, it means a new version is available. Tap “Update” to install the latest version.

Q4. How To Update WhatsApp?

Answer. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to update WhatsApp on your mobile device –

• Tap the Google Play Store icon on your Android device’s home screen.
• In the search bar at the top, type “WhatsApp” and press Enter.
• Look for the WhatsApp Messenger app in the search results. It should be the first result.
• If you see an “Update” button next to WhatsApp, it means there is a new version available. Tap the “Update” button.
• WhatsApp might require certain permissions. Review them and tap “Accept” or “Allow” to proceed with the update.

Your device will download and install the latest version of WhatsApp. The time this takes can vary based on your internet connection speed. Once the update is complete, tap “Open” to launch the updated WhatsApp application.

Q5. What happens if your operating system is no longer supported?

Answer. Prior to the discontinuation of support for your operating system, you will receive direct notifications through WhatsApp in advance and will be reminded multiple times to proceed with the upgrade.

Q6. What is the list of devices which will not support WhatsApp?

Answer. Some of the outdated smartphones include older Android smartphones:

1. Samsung Galaxy S2
2. Nexus 7
3. iPhone 5
4. iPhone 5c
5. Archos 53 Platinum
6. Grand S Flex ZTE
7. Grand X Quad V987 ZTE
8. HTC Desire 500
9. Huawei Ascend D
10. Huawei Ascend D1
11. HTC One
12. Sony Xperia Z
13. LG Optimus G Pro
14. Samsung Galaxy Nexus
15. HTC Sensation
16. Motorola Droid Razr
17. Sony Xperia S2
18. Motorola Xoom
19. Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1
20. Asus Eee Pad Transformer
21. Acer Iconia Tab A5003
22. Samsung Galaxy S
23. HTC Desire HD
24. LG Optimus 2X
25. Sony Ericsson Xperia Arc3

Q7. What are the reasons for discontinuation on older devices?

Answer. WhatsApp’s choice to drop support for older devices stems from the app’s advanced features that are no longer compatible with outdated hardware and operating systems.
Plus, the devices won’t get any security updates from Google, making security breaches and other issues more likely.
For a secure and dependable user experience, it’s in the best interest of both WhatsApp and its users to promote upgrading to newer devices.

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