Several older models of iPhones and Android phones can no longer use the WhatsApp messaging platform starting January 2021. The update comes on the heels of reports that India’s trade body is seeking a ban on both WhatsApp and its parent company Facebook.

Got an old phone? Check your WhatsApp

The messaging platform confirmed on its website that it currently supports mobile devices running on OS 4.0.3 and newer for Android, and iOS 9 and newer for Apple. It also supports phones running on KaiOS 2.5.1 and newer, which includes JioPhone and JioPhone 2.

For iPhones, this means that users of iPhone 4S, iPhone 5, iPhone 6, and iPhone 6S will need to update their software to iOS 9 if they want to continue to use WhatsApp, according to a report from News 18. In Android’s case, only a number of devices are working on an operating system older than 4.0.3 Ice Cream Sandwich; however, users of HTC Desire, LG Optimus Black, Motorola Droid Razr, and Samsung Galaxy S2 are affected by WhatsApp’s update.

To check if your mobile phone’s operating system is up to date, go to Settings, then General and then Information - if you’re an iPhone user. Android users can check via the “About Phone” section in their Settings.

This is the latest in the slew of WhatsApp updates in the recent weeks. The Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) has just called for the government to issue a ban on WhatsApp’s new privacy policy, which will see all kinds of personal data, payment transactions, contacts, location and other information of WhatsApp users being acquired and used for any purpose by the messaging platform and its parent company.

In a communication to Minister of Information Technology Ravi Shankar Prasad, CAIT said, “It reminds us of the days of East India Company who entered India to trade salt only and invade the country but at this time it is the data which is very crucial to wreck the backbone of economy, social structure, etc. the Facebook – WhatsApp combine has shown their true colours by first facilitating the Indians to use Facebook and WhatsApp without any charge but now seeking access to data, its ultimate object seems to control trade & economy of India beside other hidden agenda.”

Stable internet - it’s a problem too

Privacy issues aside, India has other pressing issues it needs to address - specifically, how it can provide faster and more stable internet even to the remotest part of the country.

In today’s digital age - and times of COVID-19 lockdowns - everyone’s turning to their mobile devices to get through the day, be it for work, study, shopping on e-commerce sites, and even getting entertained either by watching their favorite movies and shows or playing online andar bahar real cash and other games. Indian consumers won’t have issues accessing their favorite streaming platforms or online casino sites even if they have older model phones, as long as they have a good internet connection, they’re all set!

Press release by: Indian Clicks, LLC