WhatsApp ended support for several older smartphones this December, marking another cycle in the app’s routine discontinuation of outdated devices. Meta clarifies in its official FAQ that the platform periodically withdraws compatibility with older hardware and operating systems to maintain security, performance, and support for new features. As the app evolves, minimum system requirements increase, leaving behind devices that are no longer capable of running newer versions efficiently or securely.
Effective since December 1, smartphones released in 2016 have officially lost access to WhatsApp. While this discontinuation does not immediately lock users out, the transition happens gradually. Before full access is removed, users typically receive notifications urging them to update the operating system. However, when updates are no longer possible due to hardware limitations, support is terminated. Without security updates, older phones become more vulnerable to cyber threats, making continued use of WhatsApp on unsupported devices unsafe.
The newly affected devices include models from major brands such as Xiaomi, Samsung, Apple, Huawei, HTC, and Sony. Among the phones losing compatibility are:
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Huawei Mate 9 Pro
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Samsung Galaxy S7
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Xiaomi Mi Note 2
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HTC 10 evo
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Sony Xperia XZ
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Xiaomi Mi 5 Pro
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Samsung Galaxy C9 Pro
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iPhone 6s
These were once popular and widely sold models, showing how quickly software requirements can surpass aging hardware even among premium smartphones.
For affected users, the consequences go beyond losing new features. Without ongoing updates, WhatsApp can no longer guarantee privacy or data protection, increasing the likelihood of security breaches. Users may continue accessing the app temporarily, but functionality will degrade over time until it stops working altogether.
Upgrading to a newer smartphone becomes the only practical solution once support ends. The article notes that modern budget phones can reliably run WhatsApp for years, offering accessible alternatives. With the fast pace of technological development, maintaining support for outdated devices becomes increasingly difficult, making periodic discontinuations necessary to ensure a secure and efficient messaging platform.
WhatsApp’s decision reflects a growing industry trend of phasing out older operating systems to prioritize new capabilities. Users with legacy devices are encouraged to upgrade to maintain access to messaging, updates, and security features.
Filed in . Read more about Social Media and Whatsapp.
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