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WhatsApp Will Stop Working on These Android Phones and iPhones
As we approach the end of the year, WhatsApp is set to cease support for 35 older smartphones, making these devices more vulnerable to security risks. This significant update highlights the need for users to stay current with their devices to ensure continued access to essential communication tools and security updates.
Why Is WhatsApp Ending Support for Older Devices?
WhatsApp, a Meta-owned messaging platform, is one of the most widely used apps globally. It’s essential for communication and is regularly updated to fend off malware and other security threats. The latest updates from WhatsApp have raised the minimum system requirements, which means that phones running on Android versions older than 5.0 and iOS versions older than iOS 12 will no longer receive updates. This move ensures that the app remains secure and functional, but it also means that older devices will become incompatible.
List of Affected Devices
If you’re using one of the following devices, you might want to consider upgrading soon:
- Apple: iPhone SE (2016), iPhone 5, iPhone 6, iPhone 6S, iPhone 6S Plus, iPhone 5C
- Samsung: Galaxy Core, Galaxy Ace Plus, Galaxy Express 2, Galaxy Note 3, Galaxy Grand, Galaxy S3 Mini, Galaxy S4 Mini, Galaxy S4 Active, Galaxy S4 Zoom, Galaxy Note 3 Neo, Galaxy S3
- Huawei: Ascend G525, Ascend P6 S, Huawei C199, Huawei Y625, Huawei GX1s
- Motorola: Moto G, Moto X
- Lenovo: Lenovo 46600, Lenovo A858T, Lenovo P70, Lenovo S890
- Sony: Xperia Z1, Xperia E3
- LG: Optimus 4X HD, Optimus G, Optimus G Pro, Optimus L7
These devices will no longer receive WhatsApp updates or security patches, making them susceptible to potential security risks.
What This Means for Users
This update from WhatsApp is not just about pushing users to buy new devices; it’s about maintaining a secure and efficient platform. With older operating systems, the ability to protect against the latest security threats diminishes, which can lead to vulnerabilities. By ensuring that users upgrade to newer devices, WhatsApp can continue to provide a secure messaging environment.
For users, this means it’s crucial to check whether their device is on the list and plan for an upgrade if necessary. While this might seem inconvenient, it’s a necessary step to ensure your communication remains private and secure.
How to Prepare for the Change
If your phone is listed above, here are some steps you can take:
- Backup Your Chats: Before switching to a new device, make sure to backup your WhatsApp chats to avoid losing any important messages.
- Research New Devices: Look for smartphones that fit your budget and meet the new WhatsApp requirements. Consider devices that offer good value for money and have a solid support track record.
- Transfer Data: Use the transfer tools provided by WhatsApp and your new device to migrate your data smoothly.
- Stay Updated: Regularly check for updates on both your operating system and apps to ensure you have the latest security patches.
Conclusion
As technology evolves, it’s essential to stay up-to-date with the devices and software we use daily. WhatsApp’s decision to end support for older smartphones is a step towards maintaining a secure and efficient communication platform. While it may require users to upgrade their devices, it ultimately ensures a safer and more reliable user experience. Check your device, back up your data, and make the necessary changes to keep your communications seamless and secure
