WhatsApp users on older Android devices may soon need to check whether their phones are still eligible to run the app. Beginning on 8 September 2026, support will end for devices still operating on Android 5.0 and Android 5.1.
The change means WhatsApp will require Android 6.0 Marshmallow or a newer version to keep working. This applies to both the regular WhatsApp app and WhatsApp Business, since both rely on the same system requirements.
Which devices will be affected
The main devices at risk are phones and tablets that have not moved beyond Android 5.0 or Android 5.1. No specific brand or model was listed, so the most practical way to check eligibility is by looking at the operating system version installed on the device.
If a device is still on one of those two versions, it will no longer meet the minimum requirement once the new policy takes effect. For users who rely on WhatsApp for daily communication, that could mean losing access unless the device is updated or replaced.
Why WhatsApp is making the change
WhatsApp is adjusting its minimum operating system standard to keep the app stable as its features become more complex. Older Android versions often lack the system support needed to handle newer performance demands.
According to reports cited by WABetaInfo, the platform wants to ensure better reliability for its latest tools and updates. In practice, that means older software versions are being phased out so the app can continue developing on stronger foundations.
How many users are still on these versions
The affected population appears to be small, based on the Google data mentioned in the source. Android 5.0 accounts for 0.1 percent of the market, while Android 5.1 represents 0.5 percent.
Even though the share is limited, users still running those versions should not ignore the warning. Once support ends, WhatsApp will no longer function as usual on devices that do not meet the new minimum system requirement.
What users should do now
WhatsApp is expected to show an in-app notification for people using Android 5.0 and Android 5.1. That warning should give users time to prepare before support is officially terminated.
The safest step is to back up chat data before 8 September 2026. Backups can be saved to Google Drive through WhatsApp settings, and local storage can also be used if cloud space is not enough.
If needed, that data can then be moved manually to another device. This helps preserve chats, media, and conversation history when switching phones or tablets.
If the device can no longer be updated
For some users, a system update to a newer Android version may be the easiest solution. However, older devices do not always receive updates from their manufacturers.
When no further update is available, moving to a newer Android device becomes the most realistic option. That is the only way to keep using WhatsApp after the new requirement starts.
What about iPhone and iPad users
The change does not affect WhatsApp on iOS. WhatsApp still supports iPhone devices running iOS 15.1 or later and iPad devices running iPadOS 15.1 or later, at least for now.
Android users on older software should therefore check their device version as soon as possible. If Android 5.0 or Android 5.1 is still installed, support will end on 8 September 2026, and chat backups should be secured before that deadline.
