Meta-owned WhatsApp, the world's most-popular messaging platform, has discontinued support for Android smartphones with 4.4 KitKat. This means that WhatsApp is now incompatible with phones running Android 4.4 or older versions. This comes as WhatsApp is apparently trying to shift focus on newer operating systems (OS).
According to WhatsApp update tracking site Wabetainfo, WhatsApp now only supports Android OS 5.0 and newer versions. However, there are no changes regarding supported iOS devices.
With WhatsApp discontinuing support for Android 4.4 and older versions, users having devices with the older version will need to consider upgrading to Android 5.0, provided a manufacturer-issued software update is available. In case an update to a later Android version is not available, users will be required to transition to a newer Android smartphone.
It should be noted that WhatsApp parent Meta enhances WhatsApp for newer operating systems, introduces features such as multi-account switching and additional security enhancements. Meta also strongly advises users to regularly update WhatsApp to access these new features and key security patches.
WhatsApp has recently announced rolling out passkey support for the app globally. WhatsApp tested passkey support in beta for a couple of months before introducing it for users worldwide. Official passkey support for WhatsApp is available for Android users now, which means Android device users will be able to log into WhatsApp without passwords. There is no word on when the feature would be available for iOS users.
WhatsApp Will Stop Working On These Android Devices
Samsung Galaxy S2
HTC Desire 500
Huawei Ascend D
Huawei Ascend D1
HTC One
Nexus 7
Sony Xperia Z
LG Optimus G Pro
Samsung Galaxy Nexus
Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1
Archos 53 Platinum
Grand S Flex ZTE
Grand X Quad V987 ZTE
Asus Eee Pad Transformer
Acer Iconia Tab A5003
Samsung Galaxy S
HTC Desire HD
LG Optimus 2X
HTC Sensation
Motorola Droid Razr
Sony Xperia S2
Motorola Xoom
Sony Experia Arc 3