WhatsApp to end support for Android Lollipop devices this September

Millions of people worldwide face a complete suspension of their messaging services as WhatsApp prepares to withdraw support for the Android 5 (Lollipop) operating system.

From 8 September, the popular application will cease to function on devices running this legacy software, a move that impacts approximately 0.7 per cent of the world's three billion active Android users.

This shift follows data from both Google and StatCounter, indicating that a significant number of individuals still rely on these older handsets for their daily communication needs.

The impending deadline primarily affects former flagship and mid-range devices, including the Samsung Galaxy S4, Google Nexus 4, and the Sony Xperia Z.

Users must successfully install an update to Android 6 (Marshmallow) or higher to maintain their accounts.

Failing this, the application will no longer receive security patches and may be entirely blocked from login servers.

To assist with this transition, the platform will distribute multiple in-app alerts to notify those at risk before the cut-off date arrives.

For individuals whose hardware lacks an official upgrade path, the acquisition of a newer handset becomes a necessity to remain connected.

This latest policy adjustment follows a similar move in June 2025, when the iOS threshold was raised to 15.1, ending support for the iPhone 5S and iPhone 6 series.

WhatsApp continues to iterate its software requirements to ensure robust security and functionality for its global user base.

Previously, the company introduced linked device features to allow for greater flexibility across multiple supported platforms.