WhatsApp Ends Support for Older Android and iPhone Versions

WhatsApp has announced that starting September 8, 2026, it will no longer support devices running Android 5.0 or 5.1. This decision affects users of these older operating systems, as they will need to purchase new handsets to continue using the app.

The Android 5.0 version was launched in November 2014, and devices that shipped with it have not received system updates to Android 6.0. StatCounter reported that Android 5.0 and 5.1 accounted for 0.58% of mobile and tablet page views worldwide in August 2026.

Furthermore, on November 30, 2026, WhatsApp will increase the minimum requirement for iPhones from iOS 15.1 to iOS 15.5. Currently supported iPhones running iOS 15 will not be affected, as they can easily update to meet the new requirement.

WhatsApp has been notifying users about these changes and advises backing up chat histories before the September cutoff.