Source: Android Central
What you need to know
- WhatsApp has quietly ended support for outdated versions of Android.
- The popular messaging service now supports devices running Android 4.0.3 or higher.
- Users running Android 2.3.7 and older versions will be able to continue using WhatsApp only till February 1, 2020.
WhatsApp has confirmed that it will soon stop supporting devices running outdated Android versions. On its support page, the company notes that it provides support for and recommends Android devices running 4.0.3 Ice Cream Sandwich or higher.
Those of you with a device that runs Android 2.3.7 and older will no longer be able to create a new account or reverify an existing account. However, those of you already using WhatsApp will be able to continue to do so until February 1, 2020. WhatsApp also notes that some features "might stop functioning at any time" for Android versions that are not supported.
If your device runs a non-supported Android version, it is a good idea to manually back up all your chats to Google Drive. To back up your chats manually, open WhatsApp and tap on More options. Next, navigate to Settings > Chats > Chat backup > Back Up.
You can also export a copy of your individual or group chats using the app's Export chat feature. To access the feature, you will have to open the individual or group chat you want to export and then tap on More options > More > Export Chat. The chat that you exported will then be emailed to you as a .txt document. You can also choose to include media files as attachments while exporting your chats.
How to set up and start using WhatsApp for Android

Samsung Galaxy Buds Pro review: The new best
Samsung's aiming squarely at the AirPods Pro with the new Galaxy Buds Pro, but it's done something better: it's made one of the best-sounding wireless earbuds you can buy.

Soundcore Liberty Air 2 Pro review: Sounds about right
Soundcore isn't a household brand just yet, but Anker's headphone division is making a name for itself as the producer of the best-sounding true wireless earbuds under $150.

Did you pre-order the Galaxy S21?
Pre-orders for the Galaxy S21 are open right now! Did you pre-order the phone already or plan on doing so soon?

Keep your wallet put away and pay with your Wear OS watch
Ready to start paying for your coffee with just your watch? Here are all the Wear OS devices that support Google Pay!