WhatsApp is the world’s most popular messaging platform, boasting 1.5 billion regular users. The free app is one of the most secure available, due to the incorporation of end-to-end encryption. And another reason for WhatsApp's enduring popularity is the regular introduction of new features, such as stickers and group calls. Related articles WhatsApp warning as popular app will blocked on these phones from T... WhatsApp could soon be challenged by two popular rivals However, a recent WhatsApp update has been less welcome, after leaving many users unable to access the service. WhatsApp, WhatsApp update, What phones will WhatsApp no longer support in 2019, WhatsApp Nokia update WhatsApp statement WhatsApp has ended support for the Nokia S40 platform in 2019, meaning many users are no unable to use its the popular messaging app. This change is likely to prove potentially problematic for some people, especially older WhatsApp users who are not used to keeping up-to-date with the latest models. And the change cold also be troublesome for low-income families. READ MORE: How to use new AR lenses for you and your dog WhatsApp: Many fans are now unable to access the service (Image: Getty) WhatsApp: The platform has ended support for Nokia S40 phones (Image: Getty) The last phone running the S40 platform was the Nokia 515, released in 2013. Some time ago WhatsApp prevented these devices from registering with the service. Phones that already had installed and verified their account could carry on accessing the service until December 31 but will no longer connect from January 1. Those with the affected gadgets will now only be able to access WhatsApp by buying a new smartphone. READ MORE: How to download new Snap Camera Snapchat app for desktop? Related articles WhatsApp on Apple watch: Can you get WhatsApp on Apple Watch 4? WhatsApp New Year 2019 wishes: Stickers, messages and greetings WhatsApp said in a statement: "This was a tough decision for us to make, but the right one in order to give people better ways to keep in touch with friends, family, and loved ones using WhatsApp. "If you use one of these affected mobile devices, we recommend upgrading to a newer Android, iPhone, or Windows Phone to continue using WhatsApp." WhatsApp originally announced the news back in 2016 with a range of devices including BlackBerry, Windows phone and some Apple iPhones to be blocked later that year. But the deadline was then extended for phones running Apple's iOS 7 and Android versions 2.3.7, and these will now support WhatsApp until February 1, 2020. READ MORE: Can you get WhatsApp on Apple Watch 4? WhatsApp: The last phone running the S40 platform was the Nokia 515, released in 2013 (Image: Getty) WhatsApp: Those affected will now only be able to access WhatsApp the app by buying a new phone (Image: WhatsApp) Nokia 206 Single SIM and dual SIM models Nokia 208 Nokia 301 Single SIM and dual SIM Chat Edition Nokia 515 Preinstalled WhatsApp New Nokia Asha 201 Nokia Asha 205 Chat Edition Nokia Asha 210 Nokia Asha 230 Single SIM and dual SIM models Nokia Asha 300 Nokia Asha 302 Nokia Asha 303 Nokia Asha 305 Nokia Asha 306 Nokia Asha 308 Nokia Asha 309 Nokia Asha 310 Nokia Asha 311 Related articles WhatsApp tips and tricks - Every cool new feature REVEALED WhatsApp SHOCK: Huge change coming soon, and fans are NOT happy Nokia Asha 500 Nokia Asha 501 Nokia Asha 502 Nokia Asha 503 Nokia C3-00 Nokia C3-01 Nokia X2-00 Nokia X2-01 Nokia X3-02 Nokia X3-02.5All rights reserved for this news site express.co.uk and under his responsibility