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Yes—an old phone can still use WhatsApp if it runs a supported operating system and can receive an SMS or phone call to verify the number. As of October 7, 2026, WhatsApp lists Android 6.0 or newer and iOS 15.1 or newer. The iPhone minimum is scheduled to rise to iOS 15.5 on November 30, 2026.
Which old phones does WhatsApp support?
Compatibility depends on the phone’s operating-system version, not just its age or brand. A phone that meets the minimum may still need to pass number verification before you can set up an account.
| Phone | Minimum operating system | What to know |
|---|---|---|
| Android | Android 6.0 or newer | WhatsApp’s supported-devices guidance lists Android 6.0 as the minimum. A related operating-systems result still shows Android 5.0 wording with a transition date of September 8, 2026; that date has passed, so use Android 6.0 as the current threshold. WhatsApp Help Center: About supported devices and About supported operating systems. |
| iPhone | iOS 15.1 or newer as of October 7, 2026 | WhatsApp says the minimum will become iOS 15.5 on November 30, 2026. WhatsApp Help Center: iOS support. |
WhatsApp also says it does not support modified versions of iOS, including jailbroken or unlocked devices. Minimum-version policies can change, so check WhatsApp’s supported-devices guidance if you are reading this after the dates above.
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How to check whether your phone can run WhatsApp
- Check the installed operating system. Open the phone’s settings and find the software or system information screen. The exact menu names vary by model and manufacturer.
- Look for a system update. If the installed version is below WhatsApp’s minimum, check whether the phone maker offers an update that brings your exact model to a supported version. WhatsApp’s compatibility guidance does not establish which individual models can update.
- Check number verification. The phone must be able to receive an SMS message or phone call during verification. WhatsApp says a device that works only over Wi-Fi cannot be used to set up a new account. See its operating-systems guidance.
- For an iPhone, consider the upcoming cutoff. As of October 7, 2026, iOS 15.1 meets the listed minimum, but WhatsApp says support will require iOS 15.5 or newer starting November 30, 2026.
What if your phone is no longer supported?
WhatsApp says it notifies users before support ends and sends reminders to upgrade. Its stated path is to move to a supported device. If your phone cannot update to the required operating system, do not assume reinstalling the app or keeping the phone on Wi-Fi will restore compatibility.
#1 Best Overall
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Samsung Galaxy A17 5G Smart Phone 128GB US 1 Yr Manufacturer Warranty Black
- YOUR CONTENT, SUPER SMOOTH: The ultra-clear 6.7" FHD+ Super AMOLED display of Galaxy A17 5G helps bring your content to life, whether you're scrolling through recipes or video chatting with loved ones.¹
- LIVE FAST. CHARGE FASTER: Focus more on the moment and less on your battery percentage with Galaxy A17 5G. Super Fast Charging powers up your battery so you can get back to life sooner.²
- MEMORIES MADE PICTURE PERFECT: Capture every angle in stunning clarity, from wide family photos to close-ups of friends, with the triple-lens camera on Galaxy A17 5G.
- NEED MORE STORAGE? WE HAVE YOU COVERED: With an improved 2TB of expandable storage, Galaxy A17 5G makes it easy to keep cherished photos, videos and important files readily accessible whenever you need them.³
- BUILT TO LAST: With an improved IP54 rating, Galaxy A17 5G is even more durable than before.⁴ It’s built to resist splashes and dust and comes with a stronger yet slimmer Gorilla Glass Victus front and Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer back.
WhatsApp explains that retiring older operating systems lets it support newer ones and keep up with advances in technology and security. Check the current minimum before replacing a device, since the policy can change.
Can a tablet or watch work as a workaround?
WhatsApp names selected iPads, Android tablets, and WearOS watches as devices that can be linked to a main phone. That does not establish that linking can bypass an unsupported operating system on the main phone. If the phone itself is below the minimum, do not rely on a companion device as a workaround without confirming WhatsApp’s current linked-device requirements.
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Bestseller No. 3
Best Value
BLU G35 | 2025 | Unlocked | 6.5” HD+ Infinity Display | Dual 8MP Camera + LED Flash 5MP Selfie Camera | 32GB/3GB I US Version | US Warranty | Grey
- GSM Unlocked: Enjoy seamless connectivity with your preferred GSM carrier. Compatible with T-Mobile, Metro PCS, AT&T, Cricket, Mint Mobile and other GSM networks. SIM card not included. For network compatibility, please check with your carrier. Note: Not compatible with CDMA networks like Verizon (Visible, Spectrum Mobile, US Mobile, Total Wireless, Straight Talk Wireless)
- Boundless Views: Enjoy immersive viewing on the spacious 6.5” HD+ display. Whether you're watching videos, browsing, or gaming, every detail comes through with stunning clarity.
- Smooth Performance, All Day: Powered by an efficient octa-core processor, the G35 ensures smooth performance for your everyday tasks. Enjoy faster app launches, seamless multitasking, and reliable speed.
- Snap, Share, Repeat: The G35 features a dual rear camera setup for sharp, detailed shots, and a front-facing camera that’s perfect for selfies and video calls. Capture every moment with ease and clarity.
- Effortless Access: Keep your phone secure with A.I. Face ID technology. Instantly unlock your G35 with just a glance. It's fast, easy, and secure.
Rank #4
Samsung Galaxy A16 5G 128GB Cell Phone, Unlocked Android Smartphone, Large AMOLED Display, Durable Design, Super Fast Charging, Expandable Storage, US Version, 2025, Blue Black (Renewed)
- Charger NOT Included, 6.7" Super AMOLED FHD+, 90Hz Refresh Rate, 385 ppi, 800 nits (HBM), 1080x2340px, 5000mAh Battery
- 128GB, 4GB RAM, microSDXC, Exynos 1330 (5nm), Octa-Core, Mali-G68 MP2 or Mali-G57 MC2 GPU
- Rear Camera: 50MP, f/1.8 (wide) + 5MP, f/2.2 (ultrawide) + 2MP, f/2.4 (macro), LED flash, panorama, HDR; Front Camera: 13MP, f/2.0, Android 14, up to 6 major Android upgrades, One UI 6.1
- 3G: HSDPA 850/900/1700(AWS)/1900/2100; 4G LTE: 1/2/3/4/5/7/12/13/14/20/25/26/28/29/30/38/39/40/41/48/66/71, 5G: 2/5/25/41/66/71/77/78 SA/NSA/Sub6/mmWave - Nano-SIM + eSIM
- US Model – Global Connectivity – Compatible with Most GSM Carriers like T-Mobile, AT&T, MetroPCS, etc. Will Also work with CDMA Carriers Such as Verizon, Straight Talk.
Rank #3
Samsung Galaxy A16 4G LTE (128GB + 4GB) International Model SM-A165F/DS Factory Unlocked, 6.7", Dual SIM, 50MP Triple Camera (Case Bundle), Black
- Please note, this device does not support E-SIM; This 4G model is compatible with all GSM networks worldwide outside of the U.S. In the US, ONLY compatible with T-Mobile and their MVNO's (Metro and Standup). It will NOT work with other CDMA carriers, and it is also not compatible with their MVNO (Visible, Xfinity Mobile, US Mobile, Cricket Wireless, etc).
- Compatibility with certain third-party devices and accessibility accessories, including some hearing aids, may vary depending on manufacturer support, Bluetooth protocols, software compatibility, and regional firmware limitations. For additional hearing aid compatibility information, please refer to Samsung’s official support documentation.
- Camera: 50 MP, f/1.8, (wide), 1/2.76", 0.64µm, AF | 50 MP, f/1.8, (wide), 1/2.76", 0.64µm, AF | 2 MP, f/2.4, (macro). Battery: 5000 mAh, non-removable | A power adapter is NOT included.
Rank #2
SAMSUNG Galaxy A16 4G LTE (128GB + 4GB) International Model SM-A165F/DS Factory Unlocked 6.7" Dual Sim 50MP Dual Cam (Case Bundle) (Gray)
- Please note, this device does not support E-SIM; This 4G model is compatible with all GSM networks worldwide outside of the U.S. In the US, ONLY compatible with T-Mobile and their MVNO's (Metro and Standup). It will NOT work with Verizon, Spectrum, AT&T, Total Wireless, other CDMA carriers, it is also not compatible with their MVNO (Visible, Xfinity Mobile, US Mobile, Cricket Wireless, etc).
- Compatibility with certain third-party devices and accessibility accessories, including some hearing aids, may vary depending on manufacturer support, Bluetooth protocols, software compatibility, and regional firmware limitations. For additional hearing aid compatibility information, please refer to Samsung’s official support documentation.
- 4G LTE Bands: B1/B3/B5/B7/B8/B20/B28/B38/B40/B41
- Display: Super AMOLED, 90Hz, 800 nits (HBM) | 6.7 inches, 110.2 cm2 (~86.0% screen-to-body ratio) | 1080 x 2340 pixels, 19.5:9 ratio (~385 ppi density)
- Camera: 50 MP, f/1.8, (wide), 1/2.76", 0.64µm, AF | 50 MP, f/1.8, (wide), 1/2.76", 0.64µm, AF | 2 MP, f/2.4, (macro)
Choosing between updating and replacing the phone
- Update it if the manufacturer offers a supported OS version for your exact model and the phone can receive verification SMS messages or calls.
- Replace it if the phone cannot reach the minimum OS and you need a supported main phone. Before buying, check the exact model’s update availability, carrier compatibility, and ability to receive verification calls or texts.
- Use a linked device only if your main phone remains eligible and WhatsApp’s current linking instructions support the companion device you want to use.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
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