WhatsApp Is Ending Support for Older iOS, Android Versions

Meta is once again updating software requirements to run WhatsApp on Android and iOS devices. Starting Sept. 8, 2026, the app will only be supported on Android 6 or above. And starting Nov. 30, 2026, it will only be supported on iPhones running iOS 15.5 or newer.

WhatsApp’s system requirements are updated every year to ensure the app is protected by the latest security updates. The company says it analyzes operating systems and drops support for the oldest ones with the fewest users. Last year, it raised the minimum requirement to iOS 15.1 and Android 5.0.

“Devices and software change often, so we regularly review what operating systems we support and make updates,” WhatsApp says. “These devices also might not have the latest security updates, or might lack the functionality required to run WhatsApp.”

The change may not impact iPhone users heavily. All devices that support WhatsApp’s current minimum requirement of iOS 15.1 can also be upgraded to iOS 15.5 or later. Just head to Settings > General > Software Update and download the latest possible version.

For Android phones, things could get a little tricky. Meta has updated the system requirements by an entire generation, from version 5.0 (Lollipop) to 6.0 (Marshmallow). Some older smartphones may not allow the jump, and users may need to purchase new devices to keep WhatsApp running without hiccups.

To check your current software version, head to Settings and scroll down to About phone. To upgrade your device to Android 6.0 or newer, go to Settings > System > Software updates. If you’re unable to upgrade, it likely means your device doesn’t have enough storage space, or it doesn’t support any Android version beyond what’s already installed.

:story: PCMag