WhatsApp drops support for Android 5 phones in September 2026
WhatsApp will stop working on Android 5.0 and 5.1 phones on Sept. 8, 2026, and the app’s new minimum requirement will move to Android 6.0 or newer. The cutoff applies to both WhatsApp Messenger and WhatsApp Business, giving users on older phones time to back up chats and move to a supported device.
September 8 cutoff for Android 5.0 and 5.1
On Sept. 8, 2026, WhatsApp will stop working on Android 5.0 and 5.1 devices, and Android 6.0 will become the minimum supported version. Users still on Android 5.0 or 5.1 will lose access unless they update to a newer phone or switch to a device that can run Android 6.0 or later. The cutoff covers both WhatsApp Messenger and WhatsApp Business.
What affected users should do now
The main immediate step is to back up chats before support ends. For people still using an Android 5 phone, that backup can preserve message history before they move to a newer device.
The practical options are limited. Users can upgrade to a phone that runs Android 6.0 or later, or they can move to a replacement device that meets the new minimum version. The warning period gives affected users time to make that switch before access is withdrawn.
How broad the impact is still unclear
What remains unclear is how many active users are still on Android 5.0 or 5.1. It is also not fully clear how widely in-app alerts have reached affected users. No regional exceptions or carve-outs are confirmed.
Disclaimer: This article was created with the assistance of AI. Images are for illustrative purposes only.
About the author
Samarth Agrawal is an AI and technology professional who writes about WhatsApp, automation, and emerging AI trends. He focuses on simplifying complex tech updates into practical insights for businesses, creators, and everyday users
