The popular messaging app WhatsApp has announced an update to its technical requirements that will exclude thousands of older phones. Starting September 8, 2026 , the platform will only be compatible with devices running Android 6.0 or later . For iPhones, the deadline is November 30, 2026, when iOS 15.5 will be the minimum requirement.
This measure, already announced by Meta, responds to the need to guarantee security and performance. Devices with outdated operating systems cannot receive the latest patch updates, leaving them vulnerable. Affected users will have to update their software or, failing that, migrate to a compatible phone if they wish to continue using the service.
Requirements for Android
Since September 8th, WhatsApp has required at least Android 6.0 (Marshmallow) . Phones still running Android 5.0 or 5.1 that haven't received an official update are no longer supported. This includes models like the Samsung Galaxy S3, Galaxy Note 2, Moto G (first generation), and LG Optimus G , among others.
However, WhatsApp doesn't publish a definitive list of compatible models. Compatibility depends on the Android version installed on each device. If your phone has been updated to Android 6.0 or higher, you should be able to continue using it without any issues.
iPhone Requirements
The key date for iPhones is November 30, 2026. From that day forward, WhatsApp will only work on devices with iOS 15.5 or later. This excludes models like the iPhone 5, iPhone 5c, iPhone 5s, iPhone 6, and iPhone 6 Plus , which cannot be updated to that version.
In contrast, the iPhone 6s and later models, as well as the first-generation iPhone SE and subsequent models, are compatible. This change was already announced, and WhatsApp will notify affected users with in-app notifications.
Affected Models
The list of devices losing support is not official, but it is known that phones with Android 5.1 or lower and iPhones with iOS 15.4 or lower will be affected. Among the most common Android devices are the Samsung Galaxy S4 Mini, the Sony Xperia Z, and the Huawei Ascend Mate . As for Apple, the iPhone 5s, 5c, 5, 6, and 6 Plus are the most affected.
If you have one of these devices, it's recommended that you back up your data and consider getting a new phone. WhatsApp will continue to work for a while, but it will stop receiving security updates, which could lead to vulnerabilities.
How to check your system version
To find out if your phone is compatible, simply check the operating system version. On Android: Go to Settings > About phone and look for “Android version.” If it says 6.0 or higher, you're covered. On iPhone: Go to Settings > General > About and check the “iOS version” field. You can also go to “Software Update” to see if an update is available.
If your phone can't update to the minimum version, it means WhatsApp will no longer be supported. In that case, you'll have to migrate to a new device.
What to do if your phone loses its stand
The end of support doesn't mean WhatsApp will stop working immediately. The company usually sends notices and reminders before withdrawing support. Over time, the app may experience issues logging in, sending messages, or making calls. The only viable solution is to switch to a compatible phone.
To avoid losing your conversations, we recommend creating a backup. On Android, the backup is saved to Google Drive; on iPhone, to iCloud. Go to WhatsApp > Settings > Chats > Chat Backup and follow the steps. This will allow you to restore your chats on your new device.
Notifications and next steps
WhatsApp periodically updates its requirements, and affected users will receive in-app notifications. The company notes that this review is necessary to incorporate new features like Meta AI and maintain security standards . Therefore, it's a logical evolution of the service.
If your phone is on the list, don't wait until the last minute. Back up your data and start looking for a new device. Most current users already meet the requirements, so the change only affects older devices.