WhatsApp will no longer work on some smartphones in 2021. Next year, the instant messaging app will no longer be compatible with iPhones running a version prior to iOS 9 and smartphones stuck on Android 4.0.2 (or an ex version) . We take stock of the models in question.
Every year WhatsApp is forced to put smartphones aside. In 2019, the messaging app was no longer compatible with one billion smartphones, including many Nokia phones and older Android devices. More recently, WhatsApp has removed some older versions of iOS and Android.
As January 2021 approaches, WhatsApp reminds on its official website that Some iPhones and Android smartphones may not work properly with the app. If WhatsApp is already installed on your phone, you can continue using it as before. However, some functions may not work properly over time.
WhatsApp will no longer work with certain versions of iOS and Android
WhatsApp recommends using an iPhone that has at least iOS 9, a version of the mobile operating system released in 2015. Fortunately, most iPhones in circulation run on a newer version of iOS. Apple offers software support of around 5 years for its devices. Also, most of the users quickly install new iOS updates. Within 5 weeks, iOS 14, the latest iOS update, was installed by 46.36% of compatible devices in circulation.
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However, WhatsApp may no longer work properly in some older iPhones without iOS 9, like the iPhone 4 (and earlier models). If you are still using an iPhone 5, 5S or 6, we recommend that you quickly install the latest update offered by going to your device settings.
On the Android side, WhatsApp ditches smartphones that still work a version prior to Android 4.0.3 Gingerbread. According to the latest news, less than 0.3% of the Android smartphones in circulation in the world are affected. If this is the case, we would advise you to invest in a new Android smartphone, especially since devices deprived of updates present risks in terms of computer security.
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