How to remove the WhatsApp update?

How to remove the WhatsApp update - briefly?

To remove a WhatsApp update, you can either uninstall and then reinstall the app, or roll back to an earlier version using an APK file from a trusted source.

How to remove the WhatsApp update - in detail?

Removing a WhatsApp update can be necessary for various reasons, such as encountering bugs or preferring an older version of the app. Here is a detailed guide on how to achieve this:

For Android Devices:

  1. Uninstall WhatsApp:

    • Open your device's Settings.
    • Navigate to Apps & notifications > See all apps.
    • Find and tap on WhatsApp.
    • Select Uninstall. Confirm the action if prompted.
  2. Disable Automatic Updates:

    • Go back to the Google Play Store.
    • Tap on your profile picture in the top right corner.
    • Select Manage apps & device > Updates available.
    • Turn off Auto-update apps to prevent future updates from installing automatically.
  3. Reinstall an Older Version:

    • Find a trusted APK source for older versions of WhatsApp, such as APKMirror.
    • Download the desired version of WhatsApp.
    • Ensure that your device allows installation from unknown sources by going to Settings > Security > Unknown sources (enable this option if it’s not already enabled).
    • Install the downloaded APK file.

For iOS Devices:

  1. Uninstall WhatsApp:

    • Long press on the WhatsApp icon until it starts wiggling.
    • Tap the small 'x' that appears on the top left corner of the app icon.
    • Confirm deletion by tapping Delete App.
  2. Avoid Automatic Updates:

    • Open the Settings app.
    • Go to iTunes & App Store > Automatic Downloads.
    • Turn off Updates to prevent WhatsApp from automatically updating.
  3. Reinstall an Older Version:

    • Unfortunately, iOS does not allow direct installation of older versions through the App Store. The only way is to wait for a new version that addresses your concerns or uses an alternative method like jailbreaking (not recommended due to security risks).

General Tips:

  • Backup Data: Before uninstalling WhatsApp, ensure you back up your chats and media to avoid losing important data.
  • Check Compatibility: Older versions of WhatsApp might not be compatible with the latest iOS or Android updates, so proceed with caution.
  • Monitor Updates: Keep an eye on future WhatsApp releases for any bug fixes or improvements that address your initial concerns.

By following these steps, you can effectively remove a WhatsApp update and revert to a previous version if needed.