California: WhatsApp users with older Android smartphones may soon lose access to the popular messaging app, as Meta is set to end support for devices running outdated versions of the Android operating system.
According to a report, WhatsApp will no longer work on smartphones running Android 5.0, Android 5.1 and versions older than Android 6.0 from September 9, 2026.
The move means users who have been using older smartphones for nearly a decade may need to upgrade their devices if they want to continue using WhatsApp.
WhatsApp regularly rolls out new features, improvements to its user interface and updated privacy and security tools. These updates require modern operating systems capable of supporting the latest technologies and security standards.
According to the report, Meta is ending WhatsApp support for Android devices running operating systems older than Android 6.0 from September 8, 2026.
The decision is aimed at improving user security and privacy while also maintaining the app’s performance and stability.
Users with affected devices are advised to check their Android version and consider upgrading their smartphones if their current devices are no longer compatible with WhatsApp.
