WhatsApp introduces a new requirement for all Russians

Find out how WhatsApp will stop supporting legacy devices, including the iPhone 7, as of January 1, 2025. Read more on how to maintain access to the messenger

WhatsApp, one of the most popular instant messengers in Russia, is preparing for a large-scale update, which for many users will cause them to lose access to the service. Starting January 1, 2025, updates will no longer be supported for iPhone 7, 7S, and 7 Plus, as well as Android devices from Samsung, Xiaomi, Lenovo, and Huawei. Owners of these gadgets will not be able to receive security updates and new features, and over time the application may stop working.

WhatsApp plans to disable more than 45 smartphone models during 2025 to ensure security and optimize the app's performance. The minimum requirements for WhatsApp to work will be as follows:

In February 2025, WhatsApp…