WhatsApp will end support for smartphones running Android 5.0 and 5.1. The change comes into effect on September 8, 2026. From that date on, only devices with Android 6.0 or higher will be able to use the application.
The company began displaying alerts within the app to notify owners of affected devices. The measure gives users time to back up conversations and look for alternatives. The main objective is to enable the release of new features that require greater performance and security.
Alertas already appear in the application
Muitos users report notifications appearing when opening WhatsApp. The text informs that the service will be interrupted in September for specific versions of the system. Meta, owner of the application, confirms the decision on its official support page.
Alerts include guidance for backing up conversations before the deadline. Isso makes it easy to migrate to another device. The company says it will send additional reminders in the coming months.
Requirements change Motivo
WhatsApp justified the support cut by the need to maintain the pace of updates. Recent Recursos like notification bubbles in Android do not work well on old operating systems. Manter compatibility with 2014 and 2015 releases limits development.
The decision is part of the company’s ongoing strategy. Last year, the app had already raised the minimum to Android 5.0. Agora, the level rises to Android 6.0, released in 2015 as Marshmallow.
- Dispositivos with Android 5.0 lose full access
- Aparelhos with Android 5.1 also becomes unsupported
- Android 6.0 Marshmallow becomes the minimum required
- Usuários need to update the system or change cell phone
- Backup of conversations must be done in advance
Impacto in users of old devices
The portion of users still on Android 5.x is small, but it exists. In markets with slower device renewals, the number may be relevant. Entry-level or intermediate Telefones from past generations, mainly from brands such as Samsung, Motorola, Sony and Huawei, may be affected.
Muitos of these devices no longer receive official updates from the manufacturer. Isso makes them vulnerable to security holes. Meta argues that the cut helps protect the overall user base by prioritizing safer platforms.
What to do before September 8th
Quem still uses a cell phone with Android 5.0 or 5.1 has some options. The main recommendation is to check if the device allows updating to Android 6.0 or higher. Nem all old models have this possibility.
Outra’s solution is to migrate to a newer smartphone. The market offers affordable options with Android 14 or 15. Antes of anything, the user must export the chat history. The app itself guides the backup process.
Support Updates Histórico
WhatsApp tends to review system requirements periodically. The practice follows the evolution of cell phones and the demands for privacy and new features. In 2025, the app had already made similar cuts in even older versions.
Especialistas in technology see movement as natural. Sistemas over ten years old accumulate technical limitations. The company’s focus remains on stability and delivering modern functionality to the majority of users.
Alternativas for those who cannot change devices
Para cases where switching is not viable, temporary solutions emerge. WhatsApp Web can be accessed through the browser in some scenarios, although it does not offer the same experience as the native app. Outros messaging applications continue to be compatible with older versions of Android.
The company’s official recommendation is clear: update the device whenever possible. Isso guarantees not only access to WhatsApp but also important security patches.
