WhatsApp, the popular instant messaging platform owned by Meta, will soon drop support for some older Android and iOS devices. Starting from 24 October, WhatsApp will no longer work on Android devices running OS 4.x or older. The app will remain compatible with Android Lollipop and newer versions. Additionally, WhatsApp will continue to function on KaiOS-powered devices like JioPhone and JioPhone 2.
This decision to drop support for older devices is based on factors such as the age of the software and the size of the user base. WhatsApp aims to ensure that the app runs smoothly on supported devices.
Before discontinuing service on a specific operating system, WhatsApp will notify users in advance and provide upgrade reminders. The prerequisite for using WhatsApp includes the ability to receive SMS or calls, and new accounts cannot be created on Wi-Fi-only devices.
While some devices running Android 4.1 or lower will be affected by this change, most of these devices are nearly a decade old, and the impact on users is expected to be minimal. Users can check their Android device’s version by navigating to the “Settings” app, selecting “About phone,” and checking the “Software information” section.
WhatsApp has been introducing new features and improvements, including a native app for iPad, a Channels feature similar to Telegram, and enhanced features for businesses in India like Flows, Payments, and Meta Verified.