The latest beta test version of WhatsApp, with build number 2.23.9.2, confirms the worst fears for owners of older smartphones. The instant communications platform will no longer support Android versions prior to 5.0. This has been a cause of concern for many WhatsApp users who still use older smartphones that are no longer supported by the latest version of the app. However, this move by WhatsApp is understandable, given the need to keep up with the increasing demands of the application and the need to maintain user security.
WhatsApp: millions of Android users to lose access to the app
The Meta group, which owns WhatsApp, has been improving and updating the app’s services. However, this dedication has led to the phasing out of older versions of Android. This has been confirmed by the latest discovery by WABetaInfo, which found new “minimum requirements” in version 2.39.9.2 of the app. The app will no longer run on versions prior to Android Lollipop 5.0, which was introduced by Google in 2014.
Android Lollipop introduced the Material You design, which has remained the defining design for Android smartphones to this day. The decision to no longer support older versions of Android aims to ensure that the WhatsApp application can take advantage of new features and also make use of enhanced security measures. This move is intended to provide users with the best possible experience while using the app.
According to the latest system distribution data, a very small percentage of users are still using older versions of Android. Specifically, Android 4.1 is virtually non existent, while Android 4.4 has a paltry 0.70% market share. Therefore, WhatsApp’s decision to no longer support these versions of the operating system should not affect a significant number of users.
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If you are still using an older Android smartphone, you can expect a warning message notifying you of the termination of WhatsApp functions. This message will inform you that you need to upgrade your Android operating system to continue using the app. Many apps have stopped supporting older operating systems, and WhatsApp is not an exception.
WhatsApp beta for Android 2.23.9.2: what’s new?
- WhatsApp is working on a redesigned keyboard.
- The application seems to no longer be compatible with Android versions below 5.0.
- Some users may experience an issue with the splash screen.
This update also provides further information about the compatibility with old operating systems as it seems to no longer be compatible with Android versions lower than 5.0. WhatsApp ends support for older versions of Android to ensure that the app can take advantage of the latest security features and provide the best user experience, while also allowing developers to focus on new features for the majority of users on more recent versions of the operating system.
Some users will lose access to WhatsApp
WhatsApp’s decision to stop supporting older Android versions aims to enhance user experience. This move also intends to leverage enhanced security measures and new features. Few users are still on older versions of smartphones, so this decision may not affect many people. WhatsApp’s decision won’t affect many users. If you’re one of the few still on an older Android, please upgrade your OS to continue using WhatsApp without any issues.
The decision by WhatsApp to increase its minimum requirements for Android versions is not unique. Many other applications have also phased out support for older versions of operating systems. This is due to the fact that as technology advances, the minimum requirements for applications also increase. This ensures that old technology won’t limit the implementation of new features and enhanced security measures.
Users must update their operating systems to use their favorite apps, ensuring a better experience and device security. Upgrading to a newer OS often offers new features and improvements, further enhancing the user experience. Thus, WhatsApp cannot support older Android versions, ensuring app security and improvement, even if it’s inconvenient for some users.
