WhatsApp has been known for running on an array of operating systems. However, even the universal messaging app does not think it is worth backing Windows Phone anymore. In connection to this, the company has announced it is putting an end to its support for its older iOS and Android versions, and the hardly-used Windows Phone OS. WhatsApp has confirmed via its website, that in presently only support specific devices such as iPhone running iOS 9+, Android running OS 4.0.3+, and select devices running KaiOS 2.5.1+ which includes JioPhone and JioPhone2.
An article posted on Engadget that some older version of OS which will keep on receiving "support for a limited time." In connection to this, WhatsApp will keep on working on devices that run the Android 2.3.7, and older iOS 8 (and older) until February 1, 2020. Nevertheless, the messaging app will not be supported on Windows Phone OS from Dec. 31. The company warns that the apps' features may stop functioning at any time from now.
ALSO READ: WhatsApp Adding a New 'Disappearing Messages' Feature Soon
Update to a Higher Version of Android to Continue Using WhatsApp
The creation of a new WhatsApp account and re-verification of an existing one have already been blocked on the older OS, too. If you are a WhatsApp user and you need to transfer your existing account to a new mobile device, you cannot transfer the history of your chats between platforms. Nevertheless, you can have it exported as an e-mail attachment. Therefore, you need to do this if you want your older chats backed up prior to the deadline.
If you are using an older version of Android, it does not mean you can no longer use the messaging up. You can still certainly do so, but you have to update to a higher version like the "Android running OS 4.0.3 or higher. For Apple device users, your device must be running on iOS 9 or higher, or select phones that run on KaiOS 2.5.1 or higher.
WhatsApp's 'Disappearing Feature
This Facebook-owned messaging app also announced recently its new 'Disappearing Messages' feature, which has been discovered in the latest Android beta version 2.19.275. With this new development, group admins can now choose a particular duration for messages on the group, and once these messages cross the given duration, they automatically get deleted. Originally, the new feature was projected to be available for both the group and individual chats. However, to date, reports claim that the 'Disappearing Messages' feature will be limited only to group chats.
Meanwhile, the long-awaited dark-mode feature of WhatsApp is finally set for launch, and reportedly, some users have already tried it. Website WaBetaInfo which is following developments with the app's beta version, had unveiled too, that the dark theme update is set for the app's Android version. Moreover, WhatsApp is testing a new update of beta, as well, for its iOS users, which would take in features such as splash screen, app badge enhancements, and status updates, among others.
