WhatsApp users have received a new alert warning that the app may no longer be supported on older Android devices later this year. Meta, the parent company of the app, is expected to discontinue support for outdated versions of the Android operating system. This move could impact millions of users, particularly those running Android 6 or older, starting from September 8, 2026.
Despite the potential inconvenience, the majority of users are unlikely to be affected as Android 6 was released in 2015, and the current version is Android 16. However, data indicates that around 0.69% of Android devices worldwide are still operating on Android 5, which could translate to approximately 3 million devices out of the global 4 billion Android user base.
Users who are still using phones from a decade ago may need to consider upgrading to a newer Android device to ensure continued access to WhatsApp. Older devices running outdated software are susceptible to security risks and may struggle with compatibility for other modern apps.
In a future update, WhatsApp will display a warning message stating, “Later this year, WhatsApp won’t work on this device,” prompting users to check their device’s software version. If affected, users have a few months to make necessary adjustments.
It is essential to stay informed about your device’s software compatibility to avoid any disruptions in app functionality.