HIGHLIGHTS

WhatsApp will discontinue support for Android devices operating on KitKat or older versions starting January 1.

This change impacts devices from well-known brands such as Samsung, Motorola, HTC, LG, and Sony.

Users are advised to back up their chats to prevent data loss when transitioning to new devices.

Starting January 1, WhatsApp will no longer be functional on various Android smartphones due to updated platform support requirements. If you frequently use WhatsApp as your primary communication tool with family, friends, and colleagues, it’s crucial to understand the implications of this decision by WhatsApp:

WhatsApp, owned by Meta, routinely implements updates aimed at enhancing security, privacy, and overall user experience. Consequently, older smartphones may become obsolete as they are equipped with outdated operating systems. According to WhatsApp’s support page, users with Android devices running KitKat or earlier versions will find the application inoperable from tomorrow onwards.

List of Unsupported Devices

The list of devices that will no longer support WhatsApp includes popular models from various manufacturers, such as Samsung, Motorola, LG, and Sony. Below is a detailed list of the affected smartphones:

– Samsung Galaxy S3,

– Motorola Moto G,

– HTC One X,

– Sony Xperia Z,

– Samsung Galaxy Note 2,

– Samsung Galaxy S4 Mini,

– Motorola Moto G (1st Gen),

– Motorola Razr HD,

– Moto E (2014),

– HTC One X+,

– HTC Desire 500,

– HTC Desire 601,

– LG Optimus G,

– LG Nexus 4,

– LG G2 Mini,

– LG L90,

– Sony Xperia SP.

For further updates, check: WhatsApp Introduces Typing Indicators to Improve Real-Time Engagement

If your device is part of this list, it is advisable to check for any available software updates immediately. Failing that, your best recourse may be to purchase a new device compatible with the latest Android operating systems.

Users of the devices listed above should take proactive steps to back up their chats to avoid losing crucial data, including media files and documents, when switching to a newer device. To back up your chats, follow these simple steps: Open WhatsApp > Go to Settings > Tap on Chats > Select Chat Backup.