WhatsApp will no longer be available on these phones - is yours on the list?
As of June 1, the popular messaging app stopped working on certain smartphones.
Whatsapp is a popular messaging service used by millions of people in the UK. Whether it's to message your pals about a catch up or to talk to colleagues about work, WhatsApp has quickly become many peoples go to messaging service.
However, as of June 1, the popular app no longer works on phones that are more than 10-years-old. This is due to changes in WhatApp's compatibility with operating systems. As a result, older smartphones will no longer have access to the app due to security concerns.
The major change was set to take place in May but was pushed back to June. Now iPhones that were released in 2014 or earlier and cannot upgrade to iOS 15.1 will no longer be able to use the app, reports the Liverpool Echo.
In terms of Android devices, the minimum requirement is Android OS 5.0, which was released way back in 2014 - over 11 years ago.
However, users weren't surprised that the app was disappearing, as WhatsApp sent notifications warning its users that they need to "update to the latest version of iOS to continue using WhatsApp." This was sent to users who are running anything older than iOS 15.1 on their iPhones.
In terms of Apple smartphones, those using an iPhone 5s, iPhone 6 or an iPhone 6 Plus will no longer be able to message through the Meta app. This is due to the devices not being compatible with iOS 18.
For Android, phones like Samsung's Galaxy S III, the HTC One X, and the Sony Xperia Z will no longer be able to use WhatsApp.
According to 9to5Mac, Meta has revealed on its FAQ page that the reason behind the decision to remove support of this app on older phones is because they do not have the latest updates or functionality required to run WhatsApp.
Even Apple has disregarded these older models as over a year ago the tech brand declared that the iPhone 6 was "obsolete". This means that the company no longer repairs or services the device, and third-party service providers can no longer order parts for the product.
While WhatsApp may have disappeared off legacy phones, the messaging service is becoming a more impressive service for those who still have access. In April of this year, the app announced that it was gaining 12 new features for users to enjoy.
WhatsApp is currently one of the worlds most used messaging apps as over two billion people worldwide are active users of the service.
On their blog, WhatsApp said: "To keep you in the loop, we'll be sharing regular roundups of the latest updates, tools, and settings." This roundup included the new features that have been recently rolled out, but shoppers may not be aware of. This includes:
Chats
Online indicator in group chats: To help you know if people are around to chat, you can now see how many people are 'online' in real-time, right under the group name.
Highlight notifications in groups: You can use the new 'Notify for' setting and select 'Highlights' to limit notifications for @mentions, replies, and messages from saved contacts or 'All' to receive all notifications.
Events updates: You can now create an event in a 1:1 conversation. WhatsApp has also added the ability to RSVP as 'maybe,' invite a plus one, add end date and time for longer events, and pin the event in a chat.
Tappable reactions: Now you can quickly view everyone else's reactions and tap the one you want to send.
Document scanning on iPhone: Scan and send documents directly from WhatsApp on iPhone. Select 'Scan document' from the attachment section and follow the steps to scan, crop, and save the document.
Default App for iPhone: With the latest iOS update, you can now also set WhatsApp as your default messaging and calling app on your iPhone. To make the switch, go to Settings > Default Apps and select WhatsApp.
Calls
Pinch to zoom in video calls: iPhone users can now pinch to zoom in on a video while on a video call to get a closer look at your own or peer video.
Add to call from a chat: Add someone to an ongoing call directly from a chat thread by tapping the call icon on the top and selecting 'Add to call'.
Enjoy smoother video calls: Work has been done to reduce dropped calls and video freezing. Improved bandwidth detection can quickly upgrade your video to HD quality for a more enjoyable experience.
Updates
Video notes for Channels: Similar to chats, Channel admins can now instantly record and share short videos (60 seconds or less) with followers.
Voice message transcripts on Channels: You can now get a written summary of voice message updates from channels when you're on the go and can't listen to them.
QR codes: As a channel admin, you can now share a unique QR code that links directly to your channel, making it easy to share with others and grow their audience.
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