Meta has once again updated the software requirements for WhatsApp to work on Android and iOS devices. As a result of these updates, the list of phones for which WhatsApp support has been discontinued is expanding. The company systematically analyzes operating systems and ends support for older systems with the fewest users. The main purpose of this step is to ensure that the application is protected with the latest security updates.

New Requirements for Android and iOS

According to the new regulation, as of September 8, 2026, the application will only be supported on Android 6 or higher. This presents a slightly more complex picture for Android phones and makes it mandatory for users to check device compatibility.

For iPhone users, the process is slightly different and less restrictive. From November 30, 2026, only iPhone models running iOS 15.5 or later will be supported.

This change doesn’t seem to significantly affect iPhone users. All devices currently supporting the minimum requirement of iOS 15.1 can be quickly updated to iOS 15.5 or later.

iOS 15 continues to work on iPhone 6s, iPhone 6s Plus, iPhone SE first generation, iPhone 7, and iPhone 7 Plus models. As stated on Apple’s security updates page, iOS 15.8.8 was released on May 11, 2026 for these devices.

Update Process and Security Measures

Checking the software version of their devices is quite easy. You can install the latest version available for your device by going to General and then Software Update in the Settings menu.

Android users can see their current version by scrolling down to About Phone in the Settings menu. To upgrade your device to Android 6.0 or newer, simply follow the path Settings, System, and Software Updates.

WhatsApp states that devices and software change frequently in the technology world. Therefore, they regularly review supported operating systems and continue to make the necessary updates.

The company emphasizes that older devices do not receive the latest security updates. Moreover, it is among the official statements that these devices may not have the technical functionality required to run WhatsApp.

Last year, the minimum requirements were lowered to iOS 15.1 and Android 5.0. Meta aims to maintain the security and performance of the platform by updating these requirements every year.

Users should systematically follow the software updates offered by the manufacturer to keep their phones up-to-date. So, is your device affected by these updates?

The list of phones with discontinued WhatsApp support has been updated. Support for devices below Android 6 and iOS 15.5 ends in 2026.