If you are holding onto a reliable older smartphone running Android 6.0.1 (Marshmallow), you may have encountered warning messages recently regarding your apps. As technology advances, software developers eventually stop supporting older operating systems to focus on security and new features.
For the billions of WhatsApp users worldwide, the question of support is critical. So, will WhatsApp work on Android 6.0.1?
The short answer is: Yes, for now, but its days are numbered. will whatsapp work on android 6.0.1
Here is a detailed breakdown of the current situation, the timeline for the end of support, and what you can do to prepare.
Many devices running Android 6.0.1 may actually be capable of running newer software. Is WhatsApp Still Supported on Android 6
If you cannot afford or do not wish to upgrade your hardware yet, try these fixes:
You do not need a flagship 2026 phone. A refurbished Samsung Galaxy A20s or Nokia 3.4 (both run Android 10 or 11) costs $50-80 USD. These run WhatsApp perfectly and will receive support until at least 2028. Go to Settings > About Phone > System Updates
WhatsApp works on Android 6.0.1 today (April 2026), but do not expect it to work after the next 3–6 months. You must upgrade your phone before the end of 2026.
Need to save your chat history?
Go to WhatsApp > Settings > Chats > Chat Backup > Back Up Now. Then install WhatsApp on a new Android phone (Android 10 or newer) and restore your backup.
Last updated: April 2026