WhatsApp has officially ended support for smartphones running Android 5.0 and Android 5.1, with new minimum operating-system requirements taking effect from Tuesday, 8 September 2026.
The change means users whose devices cannot upgrade beyond Android 5 will no longer be able to use WhatsApp, as the Meta-owned messaging platform moves its minimum requirement to Android 6.0 or newer.
The change applies to both WhatsApp Messenger and WhatsApp Business, potentially affecting individuals as well as small businesses that continue to operate the messaging service from older smartphones.
Android 6 becomes the new minimum
Until now, WhatsApp supported Android smartphones running Android 5.0 and newer. From 8 September, however, only devices running Android 6.0 or later are officially supported.
Importantly, the change is based on the operating system rather than a particular smartphone brand or model.
This means an older handset that has been successfully updated to Android 6 or newer should continue running WhatsApp. The problem is for devices permanently stuck on Android 5.0 or 5.1 because their manufacturers no longer provide software updates.
WhatsApp had been notifying affected users ahead of the deadline, with the company saying it sends several reminders encouraging people to upgrade their operating system or move to a newer device.
Why WhatsApp is leaving older phones behind
WhatsApp regularly reviews the operating systems it supports as smartphones and mobile technology evolve.
The company says older devices and operating systems are gradually dropped so it can support newer devices and keep pace with advances in technology and security.
Maintaining compatibility with ageing operating systems can also become increasingly difficult as WhatsApp introduces new functionality that depends on capabilities available in more modern versions of Android.
Android 5.0, better known as Lollipop, dates back more than a decade, while Android 6.0 Marshmallow arrived in 2015.
What affected users need to do
Android users who are unsure whether their device is affected should check which operating system their smartphone is currently running.
On most Android devices, this information can be found under Settings > About Phone > Android Version, although the exact menu may differ depending on the manufacturer.
Anyone running Android 6.0 or newer should be able to continue using WhatsApp normally.
Those still using Android 5.0 or 5.1 should first check whether a system update is available for their device. If the handset cannot be upgraded to Android 6 or later, moving to a newer smartphone will be necessary to continue using the service.
Users encouraged to protect their chats
For people who need to move to another device, backing up their WhatsApp conversations before switching is particularly important.
WhatsApp users can check their backup settings through WhatsApp > Settings > Chats > Chat Backup, helping ensure eligible conversations and media can be restored when WhatsApp is installed on a replacement device.
The change is especially relevant in markets where older Android smartphones remain in circulation for longer periods, including parts of Africa.
WhatsApp continues phasing out ageing technology
The September cutoff forms part of WhatsApp’s ongoing process of retiring support for ageing operating systems as the platform develops.
Rather than targeting specific manufacturers, WhatsApp bases compatibility largely on whether a device can run the minimum supported operating system.
For Android users, that line has now moved.
