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WhatsApp Stops Working on Millions of Devices in March 2025

Nick Papanikolopoulos

March 7, 2025

WhatsApp, one of the most widely used messaging apps, will discontinue support for older smartphones starting March 2025. This change will affect millions of users worldwide who will need to upgrade their devices if they want to continue using the app. Meta, the parent company of WhatsApp, emphasizes that this decision is necessary to maintain the security, efficiency, and stability of the platform.

Which Devices Will Lose WhatsApp Support?

Meta regularly updates the list of supported devices to ensure optimal performance and security. The latest update confirms that from March 2025, WhatsApp will no longer work on devices running Android 4.4 KitKat or older, as well as iPhones running iOS 15.1 or earlier.

List of Affected Devices

Android:

• Samsung: Galaxy S3, Galaxy Note 2, Galaxy Ace 3, Galaxy S4 Mini
• Motorola: Moto G (1st gen), Razr HD, Moto E 2014
• HTC: One X, One X+, Desire 500, Desire 601
• LG: Optimus G, Nexus 4, G2 Mini, L90
• Sony: Xperia Z, Xperia SP, Xperia T, Xperia V

Apple (from May 5, 2025):

• iPhone 5s, iPhone 6, iPhone 6 Plus

If you own one of these devices, you will no longer be able to launch or use WhatsApp after the specified date.

Why Is WhatsApp Ending Support for Older Phones?

WhatsApp continuously introduces new features that require higher processing power and modern operating systems. Older devices lack the necessary security updates and hardware needed to keep the app running smoothly.

Key Reasons for Discontinuing Support:

• Security Risks – Older operating systems no longer receive security patches, leaving user data vulnerable to cyber threats.
• New Features – Advanced tools, such as AI-driven functionalities, require modern devices.
• Improved Efficiency – Dropping outdated systems allows WhatsApp developers to focus on optimizing performance for newer hardware.
• Better User Experience – WhatsApp aims to deliver a faster and more stable experience, which is difficult on outdated phones.

What to Do If Your Phone Is Affected?

If your device is on the list of those losing WhatsApp support, here’s what you can do:

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• Check for available software updates – Some devices may be able to upgrade to a newer operating system that still supports WhatsApp.
• Backup your chats – Before making any changes, ensure you save your conversations on Google Drive or iCloud.
• Upgrade to a newer smartphone – If your device can’t be updated, you may need to purchase a more recent model that supports modern apps.
• Consider alternative messaging apps – If upgrading isn’t an option, you can switch to another platform that still supports older operating systems.

Read Also:  Meta apologizes after Instagram fails to block graphic Reels – to spin off Reels into a separate app

How to Check If Your Device Is Affected?

The easiest way to check if your phone will still support WhatsApp is by verifying its operating system version:

• For Android: Go to Settings → About Phone → Software Information and check your Android version.
• For iPhone: Navigate to Settings → General → About and check the iOS version.

If your device runs Android 4.4 or older or iOS 15.1 or earlier, you will need to upgrade to a newer device to keep using WhatsApp.

Millions of Users Affected

WhatsApp has over 2 billion active users worldwide, and it’s estimated that millions of users will be affected by this update, particularly those using older phone models. For example, the iPhone 6 and 6 Plus remain among the best-selling smartphones of all time, and their removal from WhatsApp’s supported devices list will impact a significant number of people.

This move is part of Meta’s broader strategy to phase out outdated technologies, ensuring a safer, more stable, and more efficient application. While upgrading a phone may be inconvenient for some users, this is a common practice in the tech industry, where software requirements constantly evolve.

If you are among the affected users, it’s advisable to act now and find a solution to avoid losing access to WhatsApp.

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