The list of phones whose WhatsApp support has been discontinued has been updated: Which devices will be affected?

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

Meta has once again updated the software requirements for WhatsApp to run on Android and iOS devices. As a result of these updates, the list of phones whose WhatsApp support has been discontinued is expanding.

The company regularly analyzes operating systems and terminates support for older systems with the fewest users. The main purpose of this step is explained as ensuring 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 versions. For Android phones, this presents a slightly more complicated picture and requires users to check device compatibility.

Meta has increased the system requirements from Android 5.0 to 6.0. Since some older smartphones do not support this upgrade, users may need to purchase a new device in order for WhatsApp to continue working smoothly.

For iPhone users, the process works a little differently and less restrictively. Starting November 30, 2026, only iPhone models running iOS 15.5 or newer will be supported.

This change does not seem to affect iPhone users much. All devices that support the current minimum requirement of iOS 15.1 can be easily updated to iOS 15.5 or newer.

iOS 15 version; It continues to work on iPhone 6s, iPhone 6s Plus, iPhone SE first generation, iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus models. Apple released iOS 15.8.8 on May 11, 2026, as stated on the security updates page for these devices.

Update Process and Security Precautions

It is a very simple process for users to check the software version of their devices. You can install the latest downloadable version for your device by going to the General and then Software Update sections through the Settings menu.

Android users can see their current version by scrolling down from the Settings menu until they reach the About Phone section. To upgrade your device to Android 6.0 or newer, it is enough to follow Settings, System and Software updates.

WhatsApp states that devices and software change frequently in the technology world. For this reason, it continues to regularly review supported operating systems and make necessary updates.

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

Last year, the minimum requirements were reduced 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 regularly follow the software updates offered by the manufacturer to keep the phone they use up to date. So, is the device you use affected by these updates?