Starting January 1, 2025, WhatsApp will stop supporting smartphones running Android KitKat and earlier versions of the Android platform. Meta, the owner of WhatsApp, is discontinuing support for these older devices because the app’s evolving features, including AI functionalities, require more advanced hardware. As smartphones continue to evolve, older models struggle to meet the performance requirements needed to run the latest versions of the messaging service.
Affected Devices and What You Need to Do
The list of popular smartphone models impacted by the upcoming end of support includes several older models from brands such as Samsung, Motorola, HTC, LG, and Sony. These devices will no longer be able to run WhatsApp after the specified date:
- 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
If you are using one of these smartphones, it is strongly recommended that you back up your WhatsApp data to a new device, as media files and chat history will be deleted after January 1, 2025. This step ensures that you do not lose important information when the update takes effect. We’ll keep you updated as more integrations become available.
Why Is This Happening?
According to the WhatsApp development team, this decision is part of their ongoing efforts to support the latest security updates and features that require more modern hardware. “We identify the oldest devices and software with the fewest users every year. These devices may not have the latest security updates or features needed to run WhatsApp,” the team explains. As technology advances, it becomes increasingly difficult to ensure that older devices can continue to meet the app’s growing demands, notes NIXsolutions.
Earlier this year, Meta also announced plans to end support for WhatsApp on iPhones running operating systems earlier than iOS 15.1, effective May 5, 2025. This continued push for more advanced devices reflects the company’s commitment to providing users with the best possible experience while maintaining security and functionality.
If your device is on the list, it’s a good time to consider upgrading to a more recent model. Make sure to back up your chat history and media before the deadline to avoid data loss.