WHATSAPP is being blocked on millions of phones today – in a “terrible” trend of users being abandoned by tech companies.
It comes just weeks after Google stopped serving millions of devices with its Android OS.
1
As of November 1, at least 50 phone models will lose support for WhatsApp.
Any users affected by the block will need to update their software, or buy a new phone.
It’s possible that your handset may be too old to update, forcing you to upgrade.
We spoke to industry expert Paolo Pescatore, who slammed the growing trend of companies abandoning people who hold on to their devices for a long time.
“This is terrible for users who have become so accustomed and reliant on using WhatsApp to stay connected wand share experiences,” Paolo, of PP Foresight, told The Sun.
“For some they will be forced to buy a new smartphone.
“Importantly users need to ensure they can back up their chat history. In fact some users might still have limited access without any future updates which might pose a security risk.
“This is something that users should be aware of.”
Tech companies regularly stop supporting older devices.
End of the road
Google did just that with old Android phones for Gmail, YouTube and Google Maps.
Apple also regularly cuts off older models, usually halting updates after around five or six years.
Of course, it’s still possible to keep using your iPhone without updates – although it’s not recommended.
Sometimes it’s because it’s simply not cost-efficient to keep apps working on very old versions of iOS or Android.
That’s especially the case if only a small percentage of users are running these old versions of software.
Using outdated software can also be a huge security risk – so it’s important you update, or upgrade if you can’t.
But ending support for older models can increase e-waste, and forces people to buy newer phones.
“Unfortunately it is costly for app developers to continue supporting older devices and platforms,” industry analyst Paolo told The Sun.
“However, these tech giants should provide support for older versions as some people do not want to depart with their devices.
“Even if it means only basic features are available.”
If you are using a gadget that has lost support for its OS or major apps, it’s urgent that you upgrade as soon as possible.
Although saving money may seem like a good idea, holding on to unsupported devices puts you at significant risk of being hacked.
WhatsApp’s official page on the end of support reads: “WhatsApp will no longer support Android phones running OS 4.0.4 and older on November 1, 2021.
“Please switch to a supported device or save your chat history before then.”
Best Phone and Gadget tips and hacks
Looking for tips and hacks for your phone? Want to find those secret features within social media apps? We have you covered…
I found a WhatsApp trick to unsend ANY text – even ones I sent over an hour ago
In other news, check out the best iPhone 13 deals in October 2021.
Take a look at your hidden Facebook rejection folder.
We pay for your stories! Do you have a story for The Sun Online Tech & Science team? Email us at [email protected]
This post first appeared on Thesun.co.uk
