A warning has been issued to WhatsApp users, emphasizing the importance of taking action promptly to avoid potential disruption to the service later this year. Recent findings by WABetaInfo suggest that the popular messaging app may soon cease to be compatible with older Android devices.
The impending change is linked to Meta, the app’s parent company, planning to discontinue support for outdated versions of the Google-operated system. This decision could result in a sudden inaccessibility to WhatsApp for a significant number of users, particularly those with devices running on Android 6 or earlier, starting September 8, 2026.
While the discontinuation may inconvenience some users, it is expected to have a limited impact overall. Android 6 was introduced back in 2015, and the latest version now stands at Android 16. Despite this, data from Statcounter reveals that approximately 0.69% of Android devices worldwide are still operating on Android 5, potentially affecting around 3 million devices out of the global 4 billion Android user base.
For individuals still using devices from nearly a decade ago, the functionality may persist for now. However, come September 8, there is a possibility that WhatsApp services could abruptly cease on such devices. The most viable solution would be to upgrade to a newer Android device, considering the inadequate security updates and compatibility issues faced by devices running on outdated software.
In addition to the alert, WABetaInfo has shared an image from a future WhatsApp version displaying a warning message indicating the app’s future incompatibility with certain devices. It is advisable to check the software version on your Android device promptly to assess if you are affected, as there is a limited window of time to address any potential issues.