While the application will open and run on your Android 6.0.1 phone, your user experience might be noticeably constrained compared to modern hardware:
If you are holding onto a classic device running Android 6.0.1,
If WhatsApp officially ends support for Android 6.0.1, here is what you can expect: will whatsapp work on android 6.0.1
As of April 2026, WhatsApp supports Android devices running OS 5.0 and newer . Since version 6.0.1 (Marshmallow) is newer than the current minimum requirement, the app remains fully functional on your device.
"WhatsApp is no longer compatible with this version of Android. Please upgrade your device to continue using WhatsApp." While the application will open and run on your Android 6
It works for now, but you are living on borrowed time. If you rely on WhatsApp for essential communication, it is highly recommended to back up your chats to Google Drive and begin looking for a device running at least Android 10 or higher to ensure compatibility for the next several years. About supported devices | WhatsApp Help Center
Yes, for basic messaging and calling.
To guarantee that your WhatsApp account stays active and error-free on an Android 6.0.1 smartphone, complete the following maintenance steps: About supported operating systems | WhatsApp Help Center
However, users with devices running Android 6.0.1 may encounter some limitations. For instance: Please upgrade your device to continue using WhatsApp
Older operating systems lack the modern cryptographic kernels required to maintain strict end-to-end encryption standards against modern malware. Android 6.0.1 stopped receiving security patches from Google years ago, making it an inherent vulnerability. 2. Missing Developer APIs