WhatsApp update blocks logins on outdated phones: Here’s what to know

WhatsApp is now turning away users whose phones run outdated software. A new login check on Android and iOS stops people entering the app until they update their operating system.

If one attempts to log into the account through an older device, WhatsApp will ask the user to go to the device's settings and install the latest available update.

This change is done on the server side, which means there is no need to update the application itself. WhatsApp has not specified which OS versions will block the login.

Attackers look for known vulnerabilities in old operating systems to install malware. Once a device is infected, they can intercept data stored on it. WhatsApp's message is that an app is only as secure as the device it runs on.

According to WABetainfo, the Contacts Tab is available for Android Beta 2.26.40.3. This tab includes an overall list of contacts which indicates whether they are currently online by the green icon, birthday reminders, and an option to invite people to WhatsApp. Contacts can be filtered either by their activity or alphabetically. This tab displays only the information that the contacts have shared with others.

Double-Speed Status Playback has been introduced in Beta 2.26.40.4. Double-tapping the right part of the screen turns on the 2x speed mode until you release your tap.

WhatsApp iOS Beta introduces a feature called Liquid Glass and includes a redesign of the settings.

WABetainfo reported WhatsApp Beta version 26.39.10.70 for iOS now has a video player for videos called “Liquid Glass”, which has a transparent, floating progress bar and an updated control bar. The same has been updated on iPad and Mac versions too.

Version 26.39.75 has a shortcut menu to navigate the chat menu, which will show the profile picture, username, and online status/last seen of the user. This allows users to access all of the shortcuts without opening the chat information screen.

WhatsApp is testing a split settings option, where the ‘You’ tab would have the subscriptions, lists, starred, and linked devices, while the rest of the settings will be in the gear icon.