How to return to an older version of WhatsApp on iPhone?

How to return to an older version of WhatsApp on iPhone - briefly?

To revert to an older version of WhatsApp on your iPhone, you can follow these steps:

  1. Backup your current chat history using the in-app backup feature.
  2. Uninstall WhatsApp from your device and then download and install the specific older version from a trusted source like the Apple App Store's "Purchased" section or through iTunes.

How to return to an older version of WhatsApp on iPhone - in detail?

Returning to an older version of WhatsApp on your iPhone can be necessary if you encounter issues with the latest update or prefer the features of a previous version. However, this process is not straightforward due to Apple's strict app policies and the lack of direct support from WhatsApp for downgrading apps. Here are the steps you can follow to revert to an older version:

  1. Backup Your Data: Before proceeding, ensure that all your important messages and media are backed up. You can do this by going to WhatsApp > Settings > Chats > Chat Backup. This will save your data to iCloud.
  2. Uninstall WhatsApp: Locate the WhatsApp app on your iPhone's home screen, press and hold the icon until it starts wiggling. Tap the small 'x' that appears in the corner of the app icon to delete it. Confirm the deletion when prompted.
  3. Find an Older Version: Finding a reliable source for older versions of WhatsApp is crucial. Websites like APKMirror or oldversion.com may have archived older APK files, but downloading from untrusted sources can pose security risks. Ensure you are downloading from a reputable site.
  4. Use iTunes: Connect your iPhone to your computer and open iTunes (or Finder if you're using macOS Catalina or later). Click on the device icon in the upper-left corner of iTunes, then select 'Apps'. In the list of apps, find WhatsApp.
  5. Restore from Backup: If you have a backup of an older version of WhatsApp (from a previous iPhone or through iTunes), you can restore it. Click on the 'Restore Backup' button in iTunes and select the backup file that contains the older version of WhatsApp.
  6. Install from IPA File: If you have downloaded an IPA file of an older version of WhatsApp, you will need to use a tool like Cydia Impactor or AltStore to sideload the app onto your iPhone. This process requires a computer and may void your device's warranty if not done correctly.
  7. Re-download from App Store: Another method is to re-download WhatsApp from the App Store after uninstalling it. Sometimes, this can revert you to an older version that was previously installed on your device. Note that this approach relies on Apple's servers and may not always work.
  8. Contact Support: If none of these methods work, consider reaching out to WhatsApp support or Apple Support for further assistance. They might be able to provide more specific guidance tailored to your situation.