Soon, WhatsApp won't work on iOS 7, some Android versions
WhatsApp, the world's biggest messaging app, will stop working on iOS 7, according to a plan drawn-up to end support for outdated operating systems. The compatibility for the Apple-owned platform will go away in a matter of months, but the problem can be avoided with a few steps. However, that doesn't hold true for all other OS losing support. Here's all you need to know.
Outgoing support for iOS 7 and older versions
WhatsApp has confirmed that it has stopped developing the messaging app for iOS 7 and older versions. Due to this, some features of the service could break for dated Apple platforms, leading up to its complete demise on February 1, 2020. Notably, the company has already stopped account creation and re-verification for iOS 7, but the app would continue working till support ends.
Android 2.3.7 support is also going away
Along with outdated iOS, WhatsApp will also end support for Android 2.3.7 and older versions on February 1, 2020. This means after this date, only users on smartphones running Android 4.0 or above will be able to use WhatsApp. However, it won't probably have much of an impact because by that time, Android Q will be here and we'll be headed for Android R.
How to avoid this problem
The problem of outgoing support for iOS can be avoided by leveraging Apple's software support and updating the platform to a newer version, like upgrading iOS 7 to iOS 12. Once that's done, WhatsApp will continue to work even after the set deadline. However, do note that the Android support doesn't stretch this long, which means you'll have to get a newer device.
Installing custom ROM may also help
If getting a new device seems like a problem, you could try installing a custom ROM on the smartphone in question to force upgrade to a higher Android version. This will let you continue using WhatsApp for a bit longer.
Windows Phone is losing support with no solution
Windows Phone devices are already dead but the final nail in the coffin will come in the form of WhatsApp's departure. The platform will lose support for the messaging app on December 31, 2019, and there will be no other way to continue using WhatsApp, except switching to a new Android or iOS device.
WhatsApp says it needs newer platforms to expand features
"When we look ahead to our next seven years, we are looking to focus our efforts on the mobile platforms that a vast majority of people use. These platforms/phones don't offer the kind of capabilities WhatsApp needs to expand its features."
