Meta-owned instant messaging platform WhatsApp has made a significant announcement regarding its future compatibility with certain Android smartphones, effective from October 24. The messaging giant has declared that it will cease to function on older smartphones that rely on outdated operating systems, commencing this change on October 14, 2023. This development underscores the importance of considering a phone upgrade if your device falls into this category.
WhatsApp's current support extends to Android operating systems from version 4.1 onwards. However, the landscape is set to shift after October 24, 2023, as WhatsApp will limit its compatibility to Android versions 5.0 and newer. Consequently, Android users with devices running on earlier versions will need to update to at least Android 5.0 to continue using the popular messaging platform.
WhatsApp, renowned as one of the globe's most widely-used messaging applications, facilitates seamless communication through text, photos, and videos.
Boasting over 1 billion monthly active users worldwide, WhatsApp is accessible across various devices, including smartphones, tablets, computers, and select smart TVs. The upcoming changes in compatibility reflect the app's commitment to providing a secure and up-to-date experience for its vast user base.
It's also noteworthy that WhatsApp ceased support for iPhones using iOS 10 and 11 on October 24, 2022. If your iPhone still relies on either of these outdated operating systems, WhatsApp usage has become unfeasible, urging users to consider updating their devices for continued connectivity on this popular messaging platform.