How to rollback a WhatsApp update?

How to rollback a WhatsApp update - briefly?

Rolling back a WhatsApp update is not officially supported by the platform. However, you can uninstall the latest version and install an older APK file from trusted sources to revert to a previous state.

How to rollback a WhatsApp update - in detail?

Rolling back a WhatsApp update can be necessary for various reasons, such as issues with the new version or preferring the features of an older release. Here's a detailed guide on how to rollback a WhatsApp update:

For Android Users

1. Backup Your Data:

   Before initiating any changes, ensure that all your chat data is backed up. Go to WhatsApp > Settings > Chats > Chat Backup and follow the instructions to create a backup.

2. Uninstall WhatsApp:

   Navigate to the Play Store, find WhatsApp in your list of installed apps, and uninstall it. This will remove the latest update from your device.

3. Download an Older Version:

   To download an older version of WhatsApp, you need to access a reliable APK repository such as APKMirror. Search for the specific version you want to revert to and download the APK file. Make sure to choose a trusted source to avoid security risks.

4. Enable Installation from Unknown Sources:

   Go to Settings > Security (or Privacy & Security, depending on your device) and enable Install apps from external sources. This setting allows you to install apps from sources other than the Play Store.

5. Install the Older Version:

   Open the downloaded APK file and follow the prompts to install it on your device.

6. Restore Your Data:

   Once the older version of WhatsApp is installed, open the app and go through the initial setup process. When prompted, choose to restore your chat history from the backup you created earlier.

For iOS Users

1. Backup Your Data:

   Similar to Android, back up all your chat data using WhatsApp > Settings > Chats > Chat Backup.

2. Delete WhatsApp:

   Press and hold the WhatsApp icon until it starts wiggling. Tap the X in the upper left corner of the app to delete it. Confirm that you want to remove the app from your device.

3. Download an Older Version:

   Unfortunately, iOS does not support installing older versions of apps directly through the App Store. You would need to use a third-party service or wait for WhatsApp to release a version with the desired features. However, this approach is not recommended due to potential security risks and compatibility issues.

4. Restore from Backup:

   If you decide to install the latest version of WhatsApp again, you can restore your chat history during the initial setup process by following the prompts and selecting the backup file.

Important Considerations

• Security Risks: Installing APK files from unknown sources can pose security risks. Ensure that the source is reliable and trusted to avoid malware or data breaches.
• Compatibility Issues: Older versions of WhatsApp may not be fully compatible with your current device or operating system, leading to potential performance issues or crashes.
• Regular Updates: Keeping your apps up-to-date is essential for security and functionality. Consider the reasons why you want to rollback before proceeding.

By following these steps, you can successfully rollback a WhatsApp update to an older version that suits your needs better. Always remember to prioritize data security and compatibility when making such changes.