Meta, the parent company of WhatsApp, has announced that the messaging app will cease to function on Android devices running KitKat or earlier versions starting January 1, 2025. Devices that are more than a decade old will lose WhatsApp support, as reported by GSM Arena.
This decision is aimed at ensuring the smooth operation of WhatsApp’s growing range of new features and advanced technological functionalities. Meta plans to incorporate artificial intelligence and other modern features, which require more advanced hardware.
Some of the devices that will lose support include:
- Samsung: Galaxy S3, Galaxy Note 2, Galaxy S4 Mini, Galaxy S Duos 3
- Motorola: Moto G (1st Generation), RAZR HD, Moto E 2014
- HTC: One X, One X+, Desire 500, Desire 601
- LG: Optimus G, Nexus 4, G2 Mini, L90
- Sony: Xperia Z, Xperia SP, Xperia T, Xperia V
Users who still rely on these older devices for daily use are advised to back up their WhatsApp data to a newer device before January 1, 2025. Otherwise, all chats and media will be lost permanently after that date.
Meta had previously made a similar announcement for iPhones. Devices running iOS 15.1 or earlier will retain WhatsApp support only until May 2025, as stated in an earlier update.
