WhatsApp ends support for old cell phones from January 1, 2026; check affected models

WhatsApp will no longer be compatible with several older smartphone models from January 1, 2026.

The change, announced by Meta, the company responsible for the application, occurs because these devices no longer meet the minimum operating system requirements to guarantee security, performance and new features.

Users of affected devices will receive notifications directly in the app in advance.

The decision impacts millions of people around the world who still use cell phones launched more than a decade ago.

• iPhone 5;
• iPhone 5c;
• iPhone 5s;
• iPhone 6;
• iPhone 6 Plus.

These Apple models do not support iOS versions higher than 12, while WhatsApp will require newer updates.

Models affected by brand

The incompatibility affects several manufacturers, focusing on devices that no longer receive software updates.

• Galaxy S3;
• Galaxy S4 Mini;
• Galaxy S5;
• Galaxy Note 2;
• Galaxy Core;
• Galaxy Trend;
• Galaxy J2.

At LG, the devices include old Optimus lines.

• Optimus L3;
• Optimus L5;
• Optimus L7;
• Optimus F5;
• Optimus L3 II Dual;
• Optimus L5 II.

Other brands also record support losses.

The Motorola loses compatibility in the first generation Moto G and the initial Moto E.

Sony affects Xperia Z2 and Z3.

On the Huawei, models such as the Ascend Mate, Ascend G740 and Ascend D2 no longer work with the app.

Several old HTC devices complete the list of those impacted.

Reasons for discontinuation

Meta adopts this measure to prioritize the technological evolution of the application.

Old operating systems do not keep up with advances in encryption and data protection.

Obsolete devices facilitate vulnerabilities to cyber threats.

Maintaining support for outdated versions limits the development of modern features.

The company periodically evaluates devices with a smaller active user base.

This practice allows you to focus efforts on platforms that receive regular security patches.

Preparing for change

Users should check the operating system version on their current cell phone.

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On iPhones, go to Ajustes > Geral > Sobre to check iOS.

On Android, go to Configurações > Sobre the phone > Versão from Android.

Perform a complete backup of conversations and multimedia files.

In Android, use Google Drive to automatically save data.

iPhone owners can opt for iCloud.

After backing up, transfer the information to a compatible device.

Available alternatives

Update the operating system if your device allows it.

If not, consider getting a newer smartphone.

WhatsApp Web or the desktop version works on computers as a temporary option.

These versions require connection to a compatible cell phone to operate.

Early migration avoids loss of message history.

Models from iPhone 6s or equivalent in Android remain supported.

Recommended security measures

Old devices without updates are more exposed to risks.

Perform a backup as soon as possible to preserve photos, videos and audio.

Notifications in the app alert you about the approaching deadline.

Meta reinforces the importance of safe transitions to new devices.

This update aligns WhatsApp with global data protection standards.