After October 24th, some Africans' access to WhatsApp will end.

From the beginning on October 24, 2023, WhatsApp will no longer function on some older smartphones. The messaging software will stop working with Android 4.1 or earlier handsets and iPhones running iOS 11 or earlier.

To continue using WhatsApp after October 24 you'll need an iPhone with iOS 12 or newer or an Android smartphone with OS 5.0 or above. Users of WhatsApp will receive a notification within the app urging them to update their devices.

Older Android phones from brands including Sony, HTC, LG, and Motorola may be impacted, though the precise list of vulnerable phones in South Africa was not supplied.

Older Android phones from brands including Sony, HTC, LG, and Motorola may be impacted, though the precise list of vulnerable phones in South Africa was not supplied.

The operating system version of your Android phone may be found by going to 

"Phone Settings" > "About phone" > "Software information." 

After October, WhatsApp won't function on devices running Android 4.0 or lower.

Find your iOS version on iOS devices by going to 

"General Settings" > "About." 

If you want to keep using WhatsApp on your iPhone, you should update it to iOS 12 or above, at the very least.

To maintain performance and security, WhatsApp stops supporting outdated devices. For WhatsApp service continuity, users of supported devices should keep their operating systems current.

Consider possibilities like swapping your old phone for a new one, looking for an inexpensive used phone that complies with WhatsApp's standards, or asking your phone provider about new phone discounts if you can't afford a new phone right away.