No WhatsApp on older devices
Every so often, WhatsApp makes changes to its support for Android devices (and iOS devices). A new change is now imminent. The messaging service has announced that it will stop supporting older devices from 8 September 2026. This includes smartphones and tablets running Android 5.0 Lollipop or older. This means you will have to use a device with Android 6.0 Marshmallow or higher from that date.
In Europe, the impact is likely to be limited as most users are already on newer devices. In other parts of the world, where older smartphones are still widely used, this could be a bigger change. For iPhone users, nothing will change for now.
The reason behind this move is quite practical. Older Android versions are finding it increasingly difficult to support new features and security updates. By raising the minimum version, WhatsApp can add new features faster and better comply with modern security standards. It's a recurring process: apps regularly drop old systems to keep moving forward.
If you are still using a device with this old Android version, it is advisable to look at a new device anyway. For example, Android 5.0 Lollipop is so outdated that it has serious implications on the operation and security of your device.
