If you haven't upgraded your phone in a while, it's worth it. check compatibility: from November 1 The messaging app will no longer be usable on certain phones that no longer meet the technical requirements. The measure, driven by the platform's parent company, aims to maintain security and performance on all devices.
This support update primarily impacts older models without system updatesIn practice, teams that do not meet the required versions will stop receiving updates, suffering progressive failures until the app stops working normally.
When the support is cut off and who is affected
The change will be applied from November 1, So the October 31 This will be the last day to use WhatsApp on affected phones. There won't be an abrupt "shutdown": first, [the following will appear]. Errors when sending or receiving messagesunexpected closures and synchronization problems, and then the app will stop opening.
The decision is based on criteria of security and stability: without manufacturer patches Nor do these phones, even with recent versions of the system, can properly implement modern features and encryption, increasing the risk of vulnerabilities for the user.
Models who lose access to WhatsApp
Compatibility is being dropped on phones with older systems, and these are the ones listed below. most cited models who will lose access to the app:
- iPhone: iPhone 5, iPhone 5c, iPhone 5s, iPhone 6, iPhone 6 Plus.
- Samsung: Galaxy S3, Galaxy Core, Galaxy Trend, Galaxy S4 Mini, Galaxy S5, Galaxy Note 2.
- Motorola: Moto G (first generation), Moto E (2014).
- LG: Optimus G, Nexus 4, G2 Mini, LG G3.
- Sony: Xperia Z, Xperia SP, Xperia T, Xperia V, Xperia Z2.
- Huawei: Ascend Mate 2.
- HTC: One M8.
On these devices, even though the app remains installed, will not receive new versions nor patches, and its operation will become increasingly unstable until it becomes unusable.
Minimum requirements to continue using the app
From the date indicated, the service will continue to operate only in Android 5.1 or higher and in iPhone with iOS 15.2 or laterDevices below those levels (Android 5.0 and iOS 15.1 or earlier) will be out of support.
In addition to the system, the mobile phone is expected to have sufficient memory, active security patches and the ability to run the latest features, such as call enhancements, message editing, or the multi-device mode.
What to do if your phone is affected
The first is check the system versionOn Android: Settings > About phone > Android version. On iPhone: Settings > General > About > iOS version.
If your device allows updating, Do it as soon as possible. to maintain access. If the hardware doesn't support newer versions, you'll need to plan a switch to a compatible phone and migrate account.
Before the change, perform a Backup of your chats and files. On Android: Settings > Chats > Backup > Google Drive. On iPhone: Settings > iCloud > iCloud Backup > WhatsApp.
When you get a new phone, install the app from the official store, verify the number and restores the backup with the same account (Google on Android or Apple on iOS) to preserve conversations and content.
Impact in Spain and the European Union
In Spain and the rest of Europe, the measure will affect a portion of users who still use refurbished or older range phonesespecially in professional and family environments that rely on messaging daily.
Upgrading to a supported device guarantees not only continuity of service, but also more data protection and full compatibility with European standards on security and privacy.
For those who cannot renew immediately, the recommendations of backup and verification System features help reduce risks and prevent the loss of valuable information during the transition.
If your mobile phone is on the reference lists or runs older versions of the system, act in time It's the best way to keep communicating smoothly: check requirements, update if possible, and plan your migration to keep your chats and files.
