If you've been using the same phone for a while and haven't updated the system, take note: WhatsApp will stop working on certain phones at the end of October due to changes in technical requirements. The measure affects older models that no longer receive manufacturer patches and which, due to hardware and software, They do not meet minimum safety standards required by the platform.
The adjustment will be global and will also be felt in Spain and the rest of Europe. According to the criteria communicated by the companyDevices running Android 5.0 or earlier and iPhones running iOS 15.1 or earlier will not be supported. If your device can install a later version, updating in time will allow you to continue using the app without problems.
Key dates: how and when the cut will be applied
El October 31 This is the last day of support for the affected mobile phones; starting from November 1th The experience will begin to degrade gradually. This means that, initially, the following might appear: errors when sending messagesunexpected shutdowns or synchronization problems.
Before the break, WhatsApp usually shows in-app notifications indicating the incompatibility. It's not an instant crash, but without updates or patches, usage will become unstable and problems will increase. privacy risks and the data.
Minimal and mobile versions that are left out
To continue using the app normally, the device must have a compatible system version. In practice, Android 5.0 and earlier versions are no longer supported. And on iPhone, you'll need to be above... iOS 15.1 (If you can update, do so as soon as possible.) The following older models are some of those that, due to software and support limitations, They will be left without WhatsApp:
Android (representative models)
- Samsung: Galaxy S3, Galaxy S4 Mini, Galaxy S5, Galaxy Note 2, Galaxy Core, Galaxy Trend
- Motorola: Moto G (1st generation), Moto E (2014)
- LG: Optimus G, Nexus 4, G2 Mini, LG G3
- Sony: Xperia Z, Xperia SP, Xperia T, Xperia V, Xperia Z2
- Huawei: Ascend Mate 2
- HTCOne M8
iPhone
- iPhone 5
- iPhone 5c
- iPhone 5s
- iPhone 6
- 6 iPhone Plus
The lists above are for guidance only and depend on the actual version of the system depending on the device. If your phone allows you to install a newer, compatible version, Updating can get you out of the danger zone.
How to find out your version and what to do to avoid losing your chats
First, check the system you have installed: in AndroidGo to Settings > About phone and locate Android version; In iPhoneGo to Settings > General > About and check the iOS versionIf you're below the threshold, check for available upgrades.
If you cannot update, the output is Migrate your account to a compatible mobile deviceFirst, back up your chats: on Android, go to WhatsApp Settings > Chats > Chat Backup > Google Drive; on iPhone, go to System Settings > iCloud > Chat Backup. restores the backup when installing WhatsApp on the new device.
To verify the number when changing phones you will need receive a text message or call Along those lines; it's not possible to activate new accounts on devices that only work with Wi-Fi. With these steps, your conversations and files They should be kept safe.
What happens if you continue using an incompatible mobile phone?
The app may continue to open for a while, but without support you'll start to notice recurring failuresMessages that don't appear, restarts or crashes, and loss of synchronization with backups. Furthermore, an unpatched system leads to... security vulnerabilities which is best avoided.
The goal of the change is to maintain a high level of privacy and performance for all users. In Europe, where data protection requirements are strict, operating with outdated software It's not a good idea neither for your information nor for the stability of the service.
If your phone is on the lists above or doesn't meet the minimum version requirements, the most sensible option is update the system if possible Or make the jump to a newer device; you'll gain in security, features, and a much smoother experience with WhatsApp.
Those who act with a margin will have fewer headaches: Check your version todayUpdate if necessary, back up your data, and prepare for migration if your computer is no longer up to the task; this will prevent interruptions and keep your chats safe and sound.
