The arrival of new features to WhatsApp not only brings improvements in security, privacy or usability, but also implies that Some older smartphone models will no longer be supported. with the implementation starting in August 2025. This decision, which is not new, is part of the company's regular process to ensure the proper functioning and security of the service.
Parent company Meta regularly reviews and updates the list of supported devices. The main reason is that Some phones cannot be updated to modern operating systems or lack the power to support WhatsApp's new features. Technological advancement, combined with increasingly demanding application requirements, is leaving out mobile phones that have been on the market for years..
Which models will no longer be able to use WhatsApp starting in August?
This change affects dozens of models launched more than a decade agoMany users will notice that their devices begin to display incompatibility warnings, problems opening the app, or an inability to install new versions or keep the app updated.
The phones affected by the loss of support They belong to several well-known brands. Below is the list of those who will no longer be able to use WhatsApp:
- Samsung: Galaxy S3, Galaxy S4 Mini, Galaxy Note 2, Galaxy Core, Galaxy Trend
- Apple: iPhone 5, iPhone 5c
- Motorola: Moto G (1st generation), Droid Razr HD, Moto E (1st generation)
- LG: Optimus G, Nexus 4, G2 Mini, L90
- Sony: Xperia Z, Xperia SP, Xperia T, Xperia V
- HTC: One X, One X+, Desire 500, Desire 601
There are also other affected models in different regions, but this is the official list published by Meta based on the most recent data.
Why is WhatsApp withdrawing support for these phones?
Meta argues that keeping WhatsApp on Outdated hardware poses security risks and limits the deployment of new features. The company prefers to stop updating these devices to ensure a safe and stable experience on phones that can run the latest version without any issues.
With each update, the app integrates Improvements in encryption, multimedia, synchronization and performance, which require current software and hardware components. Mobile phones that do not meet these requirements are exposed to technical problems and possible security breaches..
What should you do if your phone loses WhatsApp?
To continue using WhatsApp after August 2025, The main option is to update your mobile to one with a compatible operating system: Android 5.0 (Lollipop) or higher, or iOS 12 or higherIf your device doesn't receive updates or doesn't support these systems, unfortunately, you won't be able to continue using the service.
Before making a change, it is advisable save a backup of your chats, files, and photosThis can be done through Google Drive on Android or iCloud on iPhone, so you can recover your conversations on the new device without losing important data.
How do you know if your device is affected?
If your model isn't listed, but you suspect it may be older, it's best to check the operating system version on your device. Here's how to do it:
- On Android: Settings > About phone > Android version
- An iPhone: Settings > General > Information > Software Version
If your operating system version is lower than Android 5.0 or iOS 12, It is very likely that it will soon be unsupported.
Tips to avoid losing your data when changing your phone
In addition to making a backup, if you wish export specific chats And if you want to keep important information outside of WhatsApp, you can email them from within the app. Just select the chat, tap the three dots, choose "More," and then "Export Chat."
Please note that once you cut off access from your old phone, You will not be able to recover messages that you have not previously backed up.. Therefore, it is essential to make a copy before losing access.
Constant technological evolution means that popular apps like WhatsApp periodically become unavailable on obsolete devices. If your phone is on the list or has an older operating system, it's best to plan your change to avoid being cut off from your network, ensuring the protection of your data and conversations before the transition.