Outlook Business Desk
WhatsApp is planning to end support for older Android smartphones as part of a broader update strategy aimed at improving app performance, security standards and introducing newer features across the platform
According to WABetaInfo, WhatsApp will stop working on devices running below Android 6.0 from September 8, 2026, under a scheduled global compatibility update for older operating systems.
Smartphones operating on Android 5.0 and Android 5.1 will no longer meet minimum system requirements. These versions will lose WhatsApp access as they fall below updated technical standards needed for the app.
WhatsApp is removing support for older systems to strengthen performance and security. Many outdated devices no longer receive software updates, making them unable to handle new features and protection systems properly.
The update may affect users in India, Brazil, Pakistan, Southeast Asia and Africa, where older smartphones are still widely used across different income groups and large user bases.
To continue using WhatsApp, users will need devices running Android 6.0 or newer. This rule applies to both WhatsApp Messenger and WhatsApp Business without any separate exemptions or exceptions.
However, Apple devices will not be impacted by this update. iPhones running iOS 15.1 or later and iPads on iPadOS 15.1 or newer will continue running WhatsApp without any disruption in service.
Additionally, WhatsApp is also working on a notification bubble feature for Android users. It will enable floating chat windows similar to Messenger, allowing multitasking without leaving the current application screen.