WhatsApp to stop supporting older Android phones from tomorrow (September 8)

Dubai: WhatsApp is set to introduce new minimum operating system requirements from 8 September 2026, which could prevent users of some older smartphones from continuing to use the messaging application Under the change, WhatsApp will only support devices running Android 6.0 or later. Phones still operating on Android 5.0 or Android 5.1 will no longer be supported unless they can be upgraded to a newer version. Will WhatsApp stop working because your phone is old? The change is linked to the device's operating system rather than the phone's brand or model. This means an older phone can continue to use WhatsApp if it is running Android 6.0 or a later version. However, devices that remain on Android 5.0 or Android 5.1 may lose support if no operating system update is available. Why is WhatsApp ending support? The move is part of WhatsApp's regular review of supported operating systems. Older versions of Android may lack modern security updates and technical capabilities needed to support newer application features, making continued support more difficult as the platform evolves. Affected users are expected to receive reminders within WhatsApp encouraging them to update their operating systems before support ends. How to check your Android version Users can check their Android version by going to: Settings > About Phone > Android Version The exact menu name may vary slightly depending on the device manufacturer. If the phone is running Android 6.0 or later, it will not be affected by the change. If it is running Android 5.0 or Android 5.1, users should check whether a software update is available. What if no update is available? If the device cannot be upgraded beyond Android 5.0 or 5.1, users may need to replace it with a newer device to continue using WhatsApp. Before switching to a new phone, users are advised to back up their chats by going to: WhatsApp > Settings > Chats > Chat Backup Users should ensure the backup process is completed before resetting or disposing of their old device. iPhone users also affected The changes are not limited to Android devices. From 30 November 2026, WhatsApp will require iPhones to be running iOS 15.5 or later. Android users face the change from 8 September 2026, while affected iPhone users have until the end of November before the new requirements come into effect. Users running Android 6.0 or newer versions do not need to take any action, while those on Android 5.0 or 5.1 are advised to check for updates as soon as possible.