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What is the story
Popular instant messaging platform WhatsApp has announced an update to its supported platform requirements for Android devices.
Starting tomorrow, some older Android smartphones and tablets from brands like Samsung, Sony and Motorola will no longer be supported by the application.
The move is part of WhatsApp’s ongoing efforts to improve user experience and introduce new features that can only be supported by newer, better devices.
New compatibility requirements
The updated WhatsApp support page states that handsets running Android 4.0 (KitKat) or earlier will no longer be supported by the new version of the app.
This applies to both smartphones and tablets, ending support for these older models.
The move is also driven by security concerns, as older versions of Android often don’t receive regular security patches, making them vulnerable to malware/viruses.
List of devices losing WhatsApp support
The list of devices that will no longer support WhatsApp from January 1 includes popular models such as the Samsung Galaxy S3, Motorola Moto G, HTC One X and Sony Xperia Z.
Other affected devices include the Samsung Galaxy Note 2, Samsung Galaxy S4 Mini, Motorola Razr HD, and Moto E 2014, among others.
This change could affect a large number of users still using these older Android devices.
What can users do now?
Users of devices running Android KitKat have two options. They can check for an update bringing their phone to a newer version of Android.
However, if their phone has reached the end of the update cycle, they will need to consider purchasing a new phone running KitKat OS.
This change highlights the importance of keeping devices up to date to optimize application performance and security.
