If you are concerned that your phone may be among those affected, RCN Radio offers a guide to understand what the problem lies. problem that affects users of the popular messaging app along with recommendations to find out if your cell phone is at risk of losing access to the platform and a couple of options to continue using WhatsApp without interruptions.
Why do some phones lose compatibility with WhatsApp?
It is important to clarify that, when WhatsApp stops being compatible with certain devices, this situation is not due to an intentional block by the platform. It’s all caused by the need to keep the app optimized for the latest technologies.
Meta, the company that owns WhatsApp, has stated that Constant updates are essential to improve the user experienceimplement new features and strengthen security.
However, older devices, which use outdated versions of Android or iOS operating systems, do not have the ability to use those improvements. This happens because they lack the necessary hardware or because the manufacturers themselves have stopped updating their systems.
How to know if your phone will lose access to WhatsApp?
To find out if a phone will be among those affected is simple, you just have to follow a few simple steps to determine if a device is compatible with future WhatsApp updates:
- Check the version of the computer’s operating system
- On Android devices: Go to “Settings” > “About phone” > “Android version”.
- On iPhone: Go to “Settings” > “General” > “Information” and check the installed iOS version.
- Check the minimum requirements of WhatsApp
WhatsApp requires at least Android 5.0 (Lollipop) or iOS 12 to run its latest versions. If your phone uses a lower version, it will not be compatible with future updates. - Update the operating system
If the device allows an update to a newer version, it is key to carry out that process from the settings menu. This could extend the cell phone’s compatibility with WhatsApp. - Consult official lists
WhatsApp periodically publishes information about devices that will lose support. It is advisable to keep an eye on these lists on the official WhatsApp blog.
List of cell phones that would lose WhatsApp in January 2025
Although exact lists vary over time, some models that commonly face compatibility issues include:
Android
- Samsung: Galaxy S3, Galaxy Note 2, Galaxy Ace 3.
- HTC: One X, Desire 500.
- LG: Nexus 4, L90.
- Others: Huawei Ascend Mate, ZTE Grand X, Motorola Moto E (1st generation).
iPhone
- iPhone SE (1st generation), iPhone 6, iPhone 5, iPhone 6S Plus.
These devices usually have operating systems that do not meet the minimum requirements established by WhatsApp.
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