WhatsApp Users Alert: Older Android, iPhone Will No Longer Be Supported Without Upgrade

WhatsApp users should be aware of upcoming changes to the app's system requirements. Meta has announced that it will raise the minimum operating system versions supported for both Android and iOS devices. Users with older devices who do not upgrade their systems by the specified deadlines will be unable to continue using WhatsApp.

The company regularly reviews supported system versions based on evolving device capabilities, security needs, and feature requirements. The new policy dictates that from September 8, 2026, WhatsApp will only support Android 6 and later versions. Subsequently, from November 30, 2026, the app will require iOS 15.5 or a more recent version.

This update is expected to have a more significant impact on older Android users compared to iOS users. Previously, WhatsApp stopped supporting iPhone 5s, iPhone 6, and iPhone 6 Plus models when it raised the minimum requirement to iOS 15.1. However, the current adjustment is less likely to render a large number of iPhones obsolete, as most devices compatible with iOS 15.1 can also be updated to iOS 15.5, allowing continued use after the update.