WhatsApp, one of the world’s most popular messaging apps, has announced that it will stop supporting certain phone models beginning October 1, 2024. This change, initiated by Meta, the company behind WhatsApp, will impact both Android and iPhone users whose devices are unable to meet the app’s new software requirements.
WhatsApp to End Support for Older Phone Models Starting October 2024
iPhone 5 and Other Older Models to Lose WhatsApp Support
A significant number of older devices, a total of 19 models, will no longer be able to run WhatsApp after the cut-off date. One of the most notable devices affected is the iPhone 5, which is still widely used by some people today. As technology advances and new features are rolled out, older phones simply cannot keep up with the demands of modern software updates. For users of these devices, this means they will need to either update their phones’ operating systems—if possible—or upgrade to a newer model that is compatible with WhatsApp’s latest requirements.
Alongside the iPhone 5, WhatsApp will stop supporting several other Apple devices. These include the first-generation iPhone SE, iPhone 5C, iPhone 6, and iPhone 6 Plus. This change significantly affects Apple users, as many still rely on these older models despite their age.
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Android Devices Also Affected
The announcement also brings bad news for Android users. Several Android phone models from well-known brands like Samsung, Huawei, Lenovo, Sony, and Motorola will also lose WhatsApp support. Among the affected models are Samsung’s Galaxy Ace Plus, Galaxy Core, and Galaxy Express 2. In addition, Huawei’s Ascend P6 S and Ascend Y625, Lenovo’s A820, Sony’s Xperia Z1, and Motorola’s Moto G will no longer be compatible with the messaging app.
What Does This Mean for Users?
After October 1, 2024, WhatsApp will stop working on these devices. Users won’t be able to send messages, make calls, or use any features of the app. Those with older models will need to upgrade to keep using WhatsApp. While it may be inconvenient, this change shows how technology evolves. Older devices simply can’t keep up with newer software updates.