WhatsApp Ends Support for Older Android Versions
Why Was This Decision Made?
As every year, WhatsApp will end support for old and no longer widely used operating systems in 2025. This decision is a technical necessity for both security and performance reasons. Older systems do not support modern app infrastructures and security updates, risking app stability and user safety.
Which Android Versions Are Affected?
WhatsApp will end support for devices running Android 5.0 (Lollipop) and older versions as of October 31, 2025. After this date on these versions:
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WhatsApp cannot be downloaded,
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Existing users won’t be able to send messages even if they open the app,
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The app will automatically stop working.
What Should Users Do?
If you use a device with Android 5.0 or older:
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Update your device to Android 6.0 or higher,
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If your phone cannot be updated, consider switching to a newer Android device,
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Make sure to back up your WhatsApp data (chat history, media, etc.) before transferring it to the new device (Google Drive backup is recommended).
Why Does WhatsApp Remove Support Gradually?
When developers continue to support old OS versions, it becomes difficult to maintain compatibility with modern app features. To deliver new features like end-to-end encryption, media quality, and chat backups securely and smoothly, WhatsApp can no longer maintain compatibility with old systems.