Meta will be ending support for WhatsApp on old Android phones. More than 10-year-old devices are still running on Android KitKat. Meta has thus decided that handsets still running on that version of the OS or older will no longer have access to WhatsApp starting January 1, 2025. The reason for the discontinued support is WhatsApp's evolving features and functionalities, as Meta looks to implement more demanding features, AI functionalities, etc., requiring more modern hardware.
The company stated that older platforms often lack the capabilities required to support new updates, posing security risks and limiting functionality. The discontinuation of support means that WhatsApp will no longer provide updates, bug fixes, or security patches for affected devices.
The decision will impact several devices, including some models from prominent brands like Samsung, LG, and Sony, that were released over a decade ago. Users are encouraged to upgrade to devices running newer Android versions to continue accessing WhatsApp services.
This is not the first time Meta has ended support for older operating systems. The company periodically reviews its minimum requirements for Android and iOS to ensure the app remains compatible with current security standards and features.
In recent years, similar moves have been taken to phase out older iOS devices and earlier Android versions.
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