WhatsApp is preparing to drop support for older Android smartphones, with the change set to take effect on 8 September 2026. Once this happens, devices running Android 5.0 and 5.1 will no longer be able to access the app, effectively cutting off users who are still relying on these ageing versions.

For many, this might not come as a surprise. As apps evolve, older systems eventually struggle to keep up — and WhatsApp is no exception.

Why WhatsApp Is Making This Move

According to the company, this decision is part of its ongoing effort to improve performance, stability, and compatibility. By focusing on newer Android versions (starting from Android 6.0 and above), WhatsApp can continue introducing features without being held back by outdated software limitations.

In simpler terms, supporting very old devices makes it harder to keep the app fast, secure, and feature-rich for everyone else.

To ease the transition, affected users will receive in-app notifications ahead of the deadline, giving them time to prepare before support is officially discontinued.

What You Should Do Before The Deadline

If you're still using an older Android device, the most important step is to back up your chats.

WhatsApp provides a couple of options:

Cloud backups are the easiest way to restore chats on a new device, while local backups are useful if you prefer not to rely on cloud storage or have limited space.

Either way, don't wait until the last minute — once support ends, access to your chats could become difficult.

iPhone Users Are Not Affected

The good news is that this change only applies to Android devices. Apple users can continue using WhatsApp as long as their devices are running iOS or iPadOS 15.1 and above.

So if you're on an iPhone or iPad, there's nothing you need to worry about — at least for now.

A Change That Affects Many Regions

While newer smartphones are common in some markets, older devices are still widely used in many parts of the world. WhatsApp has acknowledged that this move will impact users across regions such as Southeast Asia, India, Brazil, Pakistan, and parts of Africa.

In countries like Malaysia, where budget devices are still popular, this could affect a noticeable group of users — especially those who tend to hold onto their phones for longer.

Time To Consider An Upgrade?

Once support is dropped, your options will be limited. You'll either need to update your device (if an update is available) or switch to a newer phone.

The reality is, many essential apps today — including banking and e-wallet services — already require newer Android versions to function properly. So upgrading isn't just about WhatsApp; it's about staying compatible with modern apps overall.

The good news is that upgrading doesn't have to be expensive. Entry-level smartphones today are far more capable than older devices, and in Malaysia, telcos often bundle affordable phones with postpaid plans, making the transition a bit easier.

Final Thoughts

WhatsApp's decision reflects a broader trend in the tech world — moving forward often means leaving older systems behind.

While it may be inconvenient for some users, it ultimately allows the platform to stay secure, efficient, and ready for future features. If you're still using an older Android phone, this is probably a good time to start planning your next move before the September 2026 deadline catches up.