WhatsApp to Stop Working on Older Smartphones Starting May 5, 2025

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Daniel Amenyo Ablordey
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WhatsApp and WhatsApp Business to Stop Working on Older Phones by May 5, 2025

In a recent update, Meta has announced that both WhatsApp and WhatsApp Business will no longer be supported on smartphones running outdated operating systems as of May 5, 2025. This move is part of the company’s effort to enhance performance, security, and overall user experience on devices that meet modern system requirements.

From the specified date, devices running Android versions below 5.0 (Lollipop) will no longer be able to access, install, or update the messaging platforms. Even existing apps on these devices will cease to function entirely.

List of Affected Devices

Users with the following models are among those expected to lose access:

Samsung Galaxy S3 Samsung Galaxy S4 Mini Samsung Galaxy Note 2 Motorola Moto G (1st Gen) Motorola Moto E (2014) LG Optimus G LG G2 Mini Google Nexus 4

Why the Change?

According to Meta, the decision to phase out support for older devices is aimed at focusing development efforts on the latest operating systems that can support improved features, enhanced encryption, and better overall performance.

A spokesperson explained, “As technology advances, it’s important we align our services with devices that can fully support them. This ensures WhatsApp remains secure and seamless for everyone.”

What You Should Do

WhatsApp To Be Disabled on Older Android Versions
WhatsApp To Be Disabled on Older Android Versions

If you’re using any of the listed devices or an Android version below 5.0:

Backup your chats to Google Drive or local storage. Upgrade to a newer smartphone that runs Android 5.0 or above. Install WhatsApp on the new device and restore your backup.

Failing to do so before May 5, 2025, means you’ll permanently lose access to your chats and contacts via WhatsApp on the affected device.

As Meta continues to streamline its platforms, users are advised to stay updated with system requirements to avoid service disruption. If your phone is on the list, now’s the time to consider an upgrade.

Also Read: NPP to Embark on Nationwide ‘Thank You’ Tour Following 2024 Electoral Defeat

Author

  • Daniel Ablordey

    Daniel Ablordey is a Business Analytics student at the University of Ghana Business School and an emerging strategist at the intersection of data, markets, and narrative. With a keen analytical mind and a passion for African business and economic trends, he is building a career focused on translating complex data-driven insights into accessible, decision-relevant stories that matter.

    As a writer and editor with Insight Ghana, African Business Insight, and The African Journal, Daniel delivers sharp, high-impact analysis on current affairs, business developments, and emerging trends across the continent. His work is defined by precision, clarity, and a deep commitment to responsible journalism — ensuring that every story he tells is not only accurate but meaningful to the audiences it serves.

    Beyond his editorial work, Daniel serves as an Ecobank Youth Ambassador, where he actively promotes financial inclusion, digital banking, and financial literacy among young Ghanaians. His leadership experience spans academic, professional, and faith-based institutions, where he has consistently driven initiatives centered on growth, structure, and long-term impact.

    Grounded in the principles of Pan-Africanism and service, Daniel brings a rare combination of analytical rigour and storytelling depth to his work. Whether unpacking market behavior, profiling emerging business leaders, or covering cultural shifts shaping the continent, he approaches every assignment with strategic intent and editorial integrity.

    His broader ambition is to contribute to Africa's transformation by shaping how data, business, and storytelling intersect — not just locally, but on a global stage.

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Daniel Amenyo Ablordey
Daniel Amenyo Ablordey
Daniel Ablordey is a Business Analytics student at the University of Ghana Business School and an emerging strategist at the intersection of data, markets, and narrative. With a keen analytical mind and a passion for African business and economic trends, he is building a career focused on translating complex data-driven insights into accessible, decision-relevant stories that matter.

As a writer and editor with Insight Ghana, African Business Insight, and The African Journal, Daniel delivers sharp, high-impact analysis on current affairs, business developments, and emerging trends across the continent. His work is defined by precision, clarity, and a deep commitment to responsible journalism — ensuring that every story he tells is not only accurate but meaningful to the audiences it serves.

Beyond his editorial work, Daniel serves as an Ecobank Youth Ambassador, where he actively promotes financial inclusion, digital banking, and financial literacy among young Ghanaians. His leadership experience spans academic, professional, and faith-based institutions, where he has consistently driven initiatives centered on growth, structure, and long-term impact.

Grounded in the principles of Pan-Africanism and service, Daniel brings a rare combination of analytical rigour and storytelling depth to his work. Whether unpacking market behavior, profiling emerging business leaders, or covering cultural shifts shaping the continent, he approaches every assignment with strategic intent and editorial integrity.

His broader ambition is to contribute to Africa's transformation by shaping how data, business, and storytelling intersect — not just locally, but on a global stage.
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