By: Bryan Tropeano
As of June 1, 2025, WhatsApp has officially dropped support for smartphones running Android 4.9 and below and iOS versions earlier than 15.1. If your phone falls into this category, you’ll no longer be able to send messages, make calls, or use one of the world’s most popular messaging apps.
For millions, this is a wake-up call to choose the right smartphone — one that won’t leave you stranded in the digital age. Whether you’re team Android vs iOS, staying up to date on operating system support is now more important than ever.
Why Is WhatsApp Cutting Off Older Devices?
This isn’t about punishing loyal users; it’s about progress. WhatsApp needs to focus its resources on devices capable of supporting modern features, security upgrades, and efficient performance. Supporting legacy phones slows innovation and puts users at risk because older operating systems no longer receive essential security updates.
How to Choose the Right Smartphone for 2025 and Beyond
If you want to keep your WhatsApp (and much more) running smoothly, here’s how to choose the right smartphone without blowing your budget:
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Prioritize long-term software updates: Apple and Google lead the pack here, offering 5+ years of OS support.
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Look for solid specs: Aim for at least 6GB RAM and recent processors for smooth multitasking.
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Battery and storage matter: Pick a phone with good battery life and minimum 128GB storage if you’re a heavy user.
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Budget-friendly doesn’t mean basic: Phones under $300 from brands like Samsung and Motorola can easily keep you connected.
The Risks of Sticking With an Unsupported Phone
If you don’t upgrade, you’ll miss WhatsApp entirely — plus, your device will be vulnerable to security threats and will lose compatibility with other essential apps. It’s not just inconvenience; it’s a potential risk to your data privacy.
That’s why it’s critical to choose the right smartphone before you find yourself locked out.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Wait, Upgrade Smart
WhatsApp’s recent move reminds us that technology evolves quickly. You don’t have to buy the latest flagship every year, but you do need to choose the right smartphone that keeps pace with the apps and features that matter most.
Need help navigating the options? Whether you want something affordable or feature-packed, I’m here to help you choose the right smartphone that fits your lifestyle — and keeps you chatting.
About the Author: Bryan Tropeano is a senior producer and a regular reporter for NewsWatch. He lives in Washington D.C. and loves all things Tech.
