WhatsApp Stops Working on Some Old Phones
Listen to the story
WhatsApp, one of the world's most used messaging apps, has ended support for several older smartphones. The change took effect on 8 September.
This means the app will no longer function properly, or at all, on the affected devices. Users of these older phones may find that WhatsApp does not open or work correctly.
The main reason for this kind of change is usually outdated operating systems. WhatsApp regularly requires phones to run newer software so the app can work smoothly and safely.
Older Android versions are often the ones affected, since companies focus their updates on newer systems. Phones that cannot be updated to a newer operating system are left behind.
People who own older smartphones are advised to check whether their device is on the affected list. If it is, WhatsApp may stop working completely or lose important features.
For many users, this could mean needing to upgrade to a newer phone to keep using WhatsApp without problems.
This is not unusual. Tech companies often drop support for old software to focus on newer, more secure systems. It ensures the app works well for most users, even though it can be inconvenient for those with older devices.
Vocabulary6 words
- apps
- programs used on phones
- support
- help to keep something working
- function
- to work correctly
- operating systems
- the main software that runs a phone
- Android versions
- different updates of the Android phone system
- upgrade
- to get a newer or better version
Quiz
Answer key
1. It stopped being supported 2. Because the phones have outdated operating systems 3. Upgrade to a newer phone
Fill-in-the-blank listening
Play the audio again and fill in the missing words as you listen.
WhatsApp, one of the world's most used messaging apps, has ended _____ for several older smartphones.
The change took effect on _____ September.
This means the app will no longer _____ properly, or at all, on the affected devices.
The main reason for this kind of change is usually outdated _____.
WhatsApp regularly requires phones to run newer software so the app can work _____ and safely.
Older Android _____ are often the ones affected.
Phones that cannot be _____ to a newer operating system are left behind.
People who own older smartphones are advised to check whether their device is on the affected _____.
For many users, this could mean needing to _____ to a newer phone.
Tech companies often drop support for old software to focus on newer, more _____ systems.
Discussion questions
- Do you think it is fair for apps to stop working on old phones? Why or why not?
- How often do you update your phone or its software?
- What problems could this change cause for people who cannot afford a new phone?
- Do you think companies should support older devices for longer? Why?