As for smartphones powered by Android, it will be necessary to have a version equivalent to or later than Android 4.1 to be able to continue to use WhatsApp. In this case, only very old models are affected, all released almost 10 years ago. — AFP
As of January 1, 2023, the WhatsApp mobile application will no longer be compatible with smartphones running certain older versions of the iOS and Android operating systems. Don't worry, though, because there's only a small chance that you'll be affected.
In a few days, WhatsApp will only be compatible with iPhones powered by iOS 12, or any other more recent versions, and with devices running Android Jelly Bean 4.1 and later. This excludes many models from accessing the app, such as the iPhone 5 and 5c, but also the Samsung Galaxy S2 and S3 mini, to name just the most popular models.
As far as iPhones are concerned, WhatsApp will only be supported by devices running iOS 12 or later. In fact, owners of an iPhone 5, or any other model released earlier, will soon be unable to use the application.
As for smartphones powered by Android, it will be necessary to have a version equivalent to or later than Android 4.1 to be able to continue to use WhatsApp. In this case, only very old models are affected, all released almost 10 years ago.
In any case, whatever your smartphone is, don't forget to update its operating system to take advantage of the latest features offered by WhatsApp, and with the best possible level of security. – AFP Relaxnews
