No-More-Chats

WhatsApp cuts ties with KitKat and iOS 12: Upgrade now or lose access

 

WhatsApp, the messaging platform backed by Meta, has recently announced that the chat application will no longer be functional on some older Android and iOS gadgets from 2025. Starting from January 1, 2025, WhatsApp will not work on Android smartphones with KitKat OS and earlier versions. 

Originally launched back in 2013, Android KitKat no longer can operate on the requirements for further development of WhatsApp, including its security improvements. The decision affects devices that are more than ten years old, including Samsung, Motorola, HTC, LG, and Sony gadgets. Owners of these devices are encouraged to switch to newer devices to continue using WhatsApp.

 

iOS Environment to be Efeected by May 2025

 

Likewise, WhatsApp will stop working for iPhones running on any version before iOS 15.1 starting from May 5, 2025. This mostly impacts devices from the past like the iPhone 5s, iPhone 6, and iPhone 6 Plus, capable of using only iOS 12.5.7 and below is not going to update to iOS 15.1. People who own these gadgets will have to upgrade their hardware to effectively use WhatsApp.

 

Implications for Users

 

After ceasing support, users of these devices will not be able to get the latest updates, fixes for software glitches, and even security updates from WhatsApp. To guarantee the continuity of access and to conform again to security protocols, the users are advised to upgrade their devices to Android OS 5+. 

 

Rationale Behind the Decision

 

WhatsApp evaluates its minimum requirements periodically concerning the latest innovations in technology to enrich the experience of the users. Older operating systems do not possess the proper architecture to accommodate new elements and secure layers, so the platform has to release a statement that it won’t continue to support devices that are no longer suitable. 

It makes it possible for WhatsApp to concentrate on creating features that take advantage of the features of current operating systems which will serve the majority of users both in terms of performance and security. 

 

Suggestions to affected users

 

Users with devices slated to lose support should consider the following steps:

 

1. Backup Data: Planning to change or Shift a device, it is advisable not to go ahead without backing up your chat history along with media.

2. Upgrade Devices: Buy a smartphone that can run both the latest operating systems suitable for WhatsApp.

3. Stay Informed: Often go through the announcements of the company that owns WhatsApp as to device compatibility and subsequent changes.

In this way, preserving these values, users can keep on receiving WhatsApp services without interruptions.