WhatsApp is preparing to roll out a change that could affect a section of users still relying on older Android phones. The messaging platform, owned by Meta, has started notifying some users that support for certain devices will end in 2026. The update may not hit everyone, but in countries like India and other emerging markets, the impact could still be noticeable because many people continue using older phones for longer.
Users are already seeing alerts inside the app. The notification clearly says that from that date, WhatsApp will not be available on certain Android versions, especially those below Android 6.0.
“WhatsApp is notifying affected users by displaying an alert as soon as they open the app. The message notes that starting on September 8, 2026, WhatsApp will no longer be available on specific versions of Android. Specifically, WhatsApp will drop support for all Android versions older than Android 6.0.”
Apart from that, older phones often stop receiving software updates from manufacturers. That creates security risks and also limits features like video calling, encryption improvements, and newer interface changes.
Apart from these, older phones from brands like Samsung, Sony, LG, HTC, and Huawei that still run Android 5.x versions may also be affected.
Globally, the number of users on Android 5.x is relatively small now, but the effect could still be bigger in places where people keep phones for many years. Regions like India, Brazil, Pakistan, Southeast Asia, and parts of Africa are expected to see more users impacted.
Since WhatsApp is a primary communication tool for many, losing access could disrupt daily use, especially for work and personal messaging.
If not, then switching to a newer device may be necessary. Before that, it is important to back up chats and media using Google Drive or local storage to avoid losing data.
Experts also suggest that users who cannot upgrade immediately may look at alternatives like Telegram or Signal, though availability and compatibility may vary depending on the device.
When will WhatsApp stop working?
As per details shared via the WhatsApp Help Center and reports by WABetaInfo, the app will stop working on Android devices running versions older than Android 6.0 starting September 8, 2026. This means phones operating on Android 5.0 and Android 5.1 will no longer support WhatsApp after that date.Users are already seeing alerts inside the app. The notification clearly says that from that date, WhatsApp will not be available on certain Android versions, especially those below Android 6.0.
Why is WhatsApp dropping support?
The company says this kind of move is part of its regular update cycle. It is mainly done to keep the app stable and secure. Older Android systems usually do not support newer features or security layers, and over time, it becomes harder to keep them compatible.“WhatsApp is notifying affected users by displaying an alert as soon as they open the app. The message notes that starting on September 8, 2026, WhatsApp will no longer be available on specific versions of Android. Specifically, WhatsApp will drop support for all Android versions older than Android 6.0.”
Apart from that, older phones often stop receiving software updates from manufacturers. That creates security risks and also limits features like video calling, encryption improvements, and newer interface changes.
Impact on users
There is no single official list, but many older models launched before 2014 are expected to lose support. Some of the commonly mentioned devices include: Samsung Galaxy S6, Sony Xperia Z3 and OnePlus One.Apart from these, older phones from brands like Samsung, Sony, LG, HTC, and Huawei that still run Android 5.x versions may also be affected.
Globally, the number of users on Android 5.x is relatively small now, but the effect could still be bigger in places where people keep phones for many years. Regions like India, Brazil, Pakistan, Southeast Asia, and parts of Africa are expected to see more users impacted.
Since WhatsApp is a primary communication tool for many, losing access could disrupt daily use, especially for work and personal messaging.
What users should do now
Users who are unsure about their phone’s software version can check it in the settings section. If the device supports an update to Android 6.0 or newer, installing it should fix the issue.If not, then switching to a newer device may be necessary. Before that, it is important to back up chats and media using Google Drive or local storage to avoid losing data.
Experts also suggest that users who cannot upgrade immediately may look at alternatives like Telegram or Signal, though availability and compatibility may vary depending on the device.
