A recent warning has been issued to users of WhatsApp, alerting them to a potential loss of access to the app later this year if action is not taken promptly. Meta, the company behind the app, is anticipated to discontinue support for older versions of the Android operating system. This move could result in a sudden inability for millions of users to utilize WhatsApp.
As per reports from WABetaInfo, devices running on Android 6 or earlier will face restrictions beginning on September 8, 2026. While this decision may be unwelcome for some users, it is expected to impact a relatively small portion of the Android user base. Android 6 debuted in 2015, and the current version is Android 16.
Statistics from Statcounter reveal that approximately 0.69% of Android devices worldwide are still operating on Android 5. Although this percentage appears minor, it translates to about 3 million devices out of over 4 billion Android users globally.
If you are currently using a phone that is nearly a decade old, it may function normally for now. However, after September 8, WhatsApp might cease to operate on such devices. The most viable solution would be to upgrade to a more modern Android device. This not only ensures WhatsApp compatibility but also enhances security, as older devices often lack recent software updates and may struggle with newer applications.
In addition to the warning, WABetaInfo shared an image from a forthcoming WhatsApp version displaying a notification stating, “Later this year, WhatsApp won’t work on this device.” It is advisable to check your Android phone to determine its software version. If you suspect that your device is affected, you have a few months to address the situation.
