WhatsApp will cease to function on some older Android and iPhone devices starting October 24, 2023. According to the platform, WhatsApp aims to concentrate its efforts on developing new features for users on the latest operating system versions, along with leveraging the latest security enhancements and technological advancements, as reported by Metro newspaper.
The list of devices that WhatsApp will no longer support includes Nexus 7, iPhone 5, iPhone 5C, Archos 53 Platinum, Grand S Flex ZTE, Grand X Quad V987 ZTE, HTC Desire 500, Huawei Ascend D1, HTC One, Sony Xperia Z, LG Optimus G Pro, Samsung Galaxy Nexus, Motorola Droid Razr, Sony Xperia S2, Motorola Charm, Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1, Asus Eee Pad Transformer, Acer Iconia Tab A5003, HTC Desire HD, LG Optimus 2X, Sony Ericsson Xperia Arc S, among others.
WhatsApp has informed users to upgrade their devices to continue using the application before the support cutoff date. However, after October 24, WhatsApp developers will cease to provide technical support, updates, security patches, bug fixes, or new features. This means that the device’s operating system will no longer receive automatic updates and will become more vulnerable to intruders and malware. It’s worth noting that most of the phones that WhatsApp will stop supporting are older models that are no longer widely used today.
If you still own one of these phones, it’s essential to consider upgrading to a newer device, as many applications, including WhatsApp, have ceased to support outdated operating systems.
Launched in 2009, WhatsApp quickly gained popularity for its simplicity, end-to-end encryption, and cross-platform compatibility, enabling users to send text messages, make voice and video calls, and share various media files. Over the years, it has become one of the most popular messaging apps globally, with billions of users worldwide. WhatsApp’s emphasis on privacy and security has made it a preferred choice for personal and business communication. However, the platform has also faced challenges related to misinformation and privacy concerns, leading to updates in its privacy policy and features.