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WhatsApp ends support for Android 5.0 devices
08th September, 2026 02:34 PM
WhatsApp has ended support for Android phones running Android 5.0, meaning users with devices on the older operating system will need to upgrade to continue using the messaging platform.
The change takes effect Tuesday, September 8, 2026, with WhatsApp confirming that only Android version 6.0 and newer will be supported.
“Starting September 8, 2026, only Android version 6 and newer will be supported,” the company stated.
WhatsApp previously supported Android phones running Android 5.0 and newer, provided the devices could receive SMS messages or calls. However, users still running Android 5.0 will now be affected by the change.
What this means for WhatsApp users
In simple terms, if your phone runs Android 5.0, you may no longer be able to use WhatsApp normally.
Users affected by the change will need to upgrade to a phone running Android 6.0 or a newer version if they want to continue using the app.
WhatsApp said it will notify users when it stops supporting their device or operating system.
“We’ll tell you if we stop supporting your device or operating system,” the company said.
WhatsApp will also remind affected users to upgrade their phones.
“We’ll remind you a few times to upgrade your device to continue using WhatsApp,” the company said, adding that it will keep the support article updated.
Why WhatsApp is ending support
WhatsApp regularly stops supporting older devices and operating systems as technology develops.
“We stop supporting older devices and operating systems on an ongoing basis. This is so we can support newer ones and keep up with the latest advances in technology and security,” the company explained.
The decision means the platform can focus on devices that are capable of supporting newer features and security improvements.
WhatsApp on other devices
WhatsApp also supports selected devices that users can securely link to their main device.
These include iPad, Android tablets and Wear OS smartwatches.
The company says WhatsApp supports “a selection of devices that you can securely link to your main device, including iPad, Android tablets and WearOS smartwatches.”
The linked devices allow users to access their WhatsApp account on additional supported devices while keeping their main device connected.
