Popular messaging platform WhatsApp will soon stop working on older Android devices, affecting thousands of users across South Africa who rely on budget or second-hand smartphones.
Deadline: 8 September 2026
From 8 September 2026, WhatsApp will no longer support devices running Android 5 Lollipop and Android 5.1. This means users whose phones cannot upgrade to at least Android 6 will lose access to the app.
Android 5, released in November 2014, has long been surpassed by newer versions, but it still powers a small portion of devices globally.
Popular Devices Affected
Several well-known smartphones launched with Android 5, including:
- Samsung Galaxy S6
- LG G4
- Google Nexus 6
While some of these devices may support updates, many older or budget models remain stuck on outdated software.
Millions Could Be Impacted
According to global usage data, Android 5 still accounts for a small share of devices. However, given WhatsApp’s massive user base—estimated at around 3 billion—this change could affect millions worldwide, including a significant number in South Africa.
What Users Should Do
Users still running Android 5 are advised to:
- Back up chats regularly
- Check if their device can be upgraded to a newer Android version
- Consider purchasing a newer smartphone if upgrades are not possible
WhatsApp says affected users will receive notifications within the app ahead of the cut-off date.
Feature Changes: Avatars Being Removed
In addition to device support changes, WhatsApp is phasing out its avatar feature. The tool, introduced in 2022, allowed users to create 3D avatars for profile pictures and stickers.
The removal is happening gradually, and some users may already notice the feature missing from their settings.
New Features in Development
WhatsApp is also working on several updates aimed at improving user experience, including:
- A new cloud backup option stored on WhatsApp’s own servers
- Up to 2GB of free storage, with possible paid plans for more space
- End-to-end encryption for backups
- Status updates displayed at the top of chat lists
- A dedicated tab for Channels
- Labels for frequently reshared statuses
- A potential premium subscription with themes, icons, and more customization
iPhone App Update Coming
On Apple devices, WhatsApp is expected to receive a design update aligned with iOS 26, introducing a more modern interface.
Read more: Top 5 Marketing Trends That Will Shake the Industry in 2025
