WhatsApp will stop working on smartphones with Android 5.0 and 5.1 from now on. The decision by Meta, which controls the messaging app, affects users with older cell phones who do not receive operating system updates from Google. Dispositivos with these versions of Android will no longer be able to access the platform, forcing migration to newer devices.
The discontinuation is part of the company’s strategy to focus on newer technologies. Versões older than Android has security vulnerabilities and limitations that make it difficult to implement modern app features.
Quais devices lose access to WhatsApp
Celulares with Android 5.0 (Lollipop) and 5.0.1 released between 2014 and 2015 will be affected. The list includes:
- Samsung Galaxy S4 and earlier models
- LG G3 and older versions
- HTC One M8 and previous generations
- Motorola Moto G (1st generation)
- Sony Xperia Z2 and Z1
- Nexus 4 and Nexus 5 (with limitations)
- OnePlus One
Smartphones with Android 6.0 or higher will continue to work normally. Quem uses versions 5.0 and 5.1 and you can try to update the device manually in the settings, but most of these cell phones no longer receive automatic updates from the manufacturer.
Quando the change takes effect
The discontinuation began to be implemented in recent weeks. Usuários with Android 5.0 and 5.1 that still have the app installed may experience crashes, synchronization errors or inability to send and receive messages. Full access will soon be blocked for anyone who doesn’t upgrade to a newer operating system.
Meta does not offer a transition period. Diferentemente from other platforms that warn months in advance, WhatsApp simply stops working when it detects the old version of Android.
Razões techniques behind discontinuation
Android 5.0 and 5.1 dropped from official Google support years ago. Sem security updates, these systems are unable to run modern encryption that WhatsApp requires to protect messages. The company argues that maintaining compatibility with such old versions hinders the development of new features.
Além Furthermore, cell phones of this era have memory and processing limitations. The app has become much heavier since 2014, consuming more resources. Versões and Android before 6.0 cannot efficiently manage contemporary applications that use artificial intelligence and real-time synchronization.
Alternativas for those who have an affected device
Usuários with Android 5.0 and 5.1 have two main options. The first is to buy a newer smartphone with Android 6.0 or higher. Aparelhos intermediaries currently cost between R$800 and R$1,500 and run WhatsApp without any problems. The second is to use WhatsApp Web or WhatsApp Desktop on your computer, although functionality is limited without the app on your cell phone.
Quem depends on WhatsApp for professional or personal communication and should act soon. Amigos and family members who still try to send messages will see the pending conversation until the user regains access on another device.
Alguns Chinese manufacturers launch cell phones with Android 5.0 or 5.1 in old stocks at very low prices. Não is worth buying these devices now, as they will soon face the same problem with other apps. The market is moving to Android 12 and 13 as standard.
Histórico from WhatsApp discontinuations
Essa is not the first time that WhatsApp has ended support for old systems. In 2020, the company stopped working on iPhone 5 and earlier models. In 2021, it was the turn of Android 4.0.3 and 4.0.4. The tendency is to increase the minimum version every two years as the platform evolves.
Windows Phone, a system that rivaled Android and iOS, was no longer supported by WhatsApp in 2017. Usuários were forced to change devices or lose access to the app. Meta follows a similar pattern to other technology giants that also end support for obsolete systems.