Meta has announced that it will no longer support WhatsApp on older Android smartphones starting January 1, 2025. The decision primarily affects devices running Android KitKat (version 4.4) or earlier.
The move comes as part of Meta’s strategy to ensure the app’s compatibility with modern hardware, as older devices, released in 2013 or earlier, struggle to support WhatsApp’s increasing range of features. While Meta has not specified all the reasons behind the decision, it is widely believed that the hardware limitations of these older devices are a significant factor.
As WhatsApp continues to evolve with new functionalities, including AI-driven features, the performance demands on smartphones have grown. Older Android devices simply lack the necessary processing power to keep up with these advances, which is likely driving the shift to more current models.
Popular smartphones affected by the change include the Samsung Galaxy S3, Galaxy Note 2, Galaxy S4 Mini, Motorola Moto G (1st Gen), Razr HD, and Moto E 2014. Users of these devices will no longer be able to use WhatsApp once the new policy takes effect.
Meta’s decision underscores the broader trend in the tech industry toward encouraging users to upgrade to newer devices to support evolving software and features.
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