This archive report was first published on 30 September 2019.
As of February 1, 2020, WhatsApp will no longer support iOS 8 devices and Android versions 2.3.7 and older.
The company announced this decision in a blog post on its website, citing the need to improve its service and the privacy of the application.
According to WhatsApp, users of these older devices will no longer be able to create new accounts or reverify existing ones.
However, users can still use WhatsApp on these devices until the support ends, but they will not be able to reinstall the app and verify their account.
WhatsApp recommends upgrading to a newer version of iOS or Android to continue using the app.
Additionally, Windows phones will no longer receive updates for WhatsApp after December 31, 2019.
Users with older devices can export their chat history in an email format, but they will not be able to transfer their messages to a new device.
WhatsApp has been adding new features to its app, but some of them require powerful phones and newer operating systems to function properly.
The company's decision to end support for older devices is aimed at improving the app's performance and security.
Users with older devices can check their operating system version by going to Settings > System > Android version.
