Will Whatsapp Work On Android 6.0.1
Look for the field to find your exact numbers. Action Plan: What You Should Do Right Now
As of early 2026, WhatsApp still officially supports devices running . Since your phone is on version 6.0.1, you are currently in the "safe zone" and can continue messaging, calling, and using status updates without issue. The September 2026 Deadline
WhatsApp will send you "reminders a few times" to upgrade your device before support officially ends for your specific version.
WhatsApp has officially announced that starting , the minimum requirement will be raised to Android 6.0 or newer. While this means Android 6.0.1 is safe for the immediate future, it will be the absolute oldest supported version. Devices running Android 5.0 (Lollipop) and 5.1 will lose all access on that date. Why WhatsApp Drops Support for Older OS Versions will whatsapp work on android 6.0.1
If WhatsApp is not working properly on your device running Android 6.0.1, try the following troubleshooting steps:
Starting September 8, 2026 , WhatsApp will officially raise its minimum requirement to Android 6.0 or newer . While this initially includes Android 6.0.1, it signals that Marshmallow is now at the absolute edge of the support window and will likely be phased out in the next major update cycle.
Before panicking, verify your current setup: Look for the field to find your exact numbers
: Come September 8, 2026, WhatsApp will stop supporting anything older than Android 6. Your 6.0.1 device will be the very last generation "grandfathered" into the app. While it will still work that day, you won't be able to update to a newer Android version if WhatsApp eventually moves the goalpost to Android 7.0 or higher. What should you do?
For devices that cannot be updated, consider moving to a newer device before the deadline to avoid disruption.
If you factory reset a phone running Android 6.0.1 today (February 2026), you can still download WhatsApp from the Play Store. However, the Play Store may show "This app is no longer compatible with your device" as early as March 2026. The September 2026 Deadline WhatsApp will send you
Here is a detailed breakdown of the current situation, the timeline for the end of support, and what you can do to prepare.
Android 6.0.1 stopped receiving security patches years ago. While WhatsApp itself encrypts your messages, the operating system is vulnerable to malware and exploits. Hackers could potentially target the OS to access data before WhatsApp encrypts it or after it is decrypted on your screen.
In mid-2026, Meta announced a significant restructuring of its compatibility roadmap. Affected OS Version Android 5.0 & 5.1 (Lollipop) Temporarily Supported After September 8, 2026 Android 5.0 & 5.1 (Lollipop) Completely Deprecated Current / Ongoing Android 6.0.1 (Marshmallow) and Above Fully Supported