How to prevent WhatsApp from updating on Android?

How to prevent WhatsApp from updating on Android - briefly?

To prevent WhatsApp from updating on your Android device, you can disable automatic updates in the Google Play Store settings and set the app to be updated manually only when you allow it. Additionally, you can turn off background data for WhatsApp to restrict any unauthorized updates.

How to prevent WhatsApp from updating on Android - in detail?

Preventing WhatsApp from automatically updating on an Android device can be crucial for maintaining a specific version of the app that you prefer or for ensuring compatibility with other systems. Here are several detailed methods to achieve this:

1. Disabling Automatic Updates:

   • Open the Google Play Store app on your Android device.
   • Tap on your profile picture in the top-right corner, then select "Manage apps & device."
   • Under the "Overview" section, tap on "Manage for this device."
   • Find and tap on "Automatic updates."
   • Select "Don't auto-update apps" to disable automatic updates for all apps.

2. Using a Third-Party App:

   • Install a third-party app like "App Lock" or "Disable My Updates" from the Google Play Store.
   • Open the app and follow the on-screen instructions to set up a PIN or pattern lock.
   • Use the app to lock WhatsApp, preventing it from updating automatically.

3. Freezing the App:

   • If your device is rooted, you can use a root management app like "Titanium Backup" to freeze WhatsApp.
   • Open Titanium Backup and find WhatsApp in the list of installed apps.
   • Tap on WhatsApp and select "Freeze." This will prevent WhatsApp from running or updating until you thaw it.

4. Using Package Disabler Pro:

   • Install "Package Disabler Pro" from the Google Play Store.
   • Open the app and grant it the necessary permissions.
   • Find WhatsApp in the list of installed packages and disable it. This will prevent WhatsApp from updating automatically.

5. Using ADB Commands:

   • Enable Developer Options on your Android device by going to "Settings" > "About phone" and tapping on "Build number" seven times.
   • Connect your Android device to a computer and enable USB debugging in the Developer Options menu.
   • Open a command prompt or terminal window on your computer and type adb shell pm disable-user com.whatsapp to disable WhatsApp updates.

By following these methods, you can effectively prevent WhatsApp from updating automatically on your Android device. Each method offers a different approach, allowing you to choose the one that best suits your needs and technical comfort level.