Frustrated because you can’t update WhatsApp from the Google Play Store? Whether you have no space, an older phone, or a device without Google services, you’ve come to the right place. This guide will show you the safest and easiest ways to update WhatsApp manually and get the latest features without losing your chats.
Also read: FM WhatsApp vs GB WhatsApp, Which One To Choose?
Step 0: Backing Up Your Data Before Updating WhatsApp
Before you update WhatsApp using an APK file, you should back up your chats so you don’t lose any messages or photos. Here’s how:
- Open WhatsApp.
- Tap the three dots in the top corner > Settings > Chats > Chat backup.
- You can back up to Google Drive (if you have it) or choose to save the backup on your phone.
- Tap Back Up to start. If you use Google Drive, ensure you’re signed into the correct Google account.
- To be extra safe, copy the backup folder to an SD card or online.
How to get your chats back after updating:
After you install the new version of WhatsApp, open the app and type in your phone number. When it asks, tap Restore to get your chats back.
Tip: If you’re using a new phone, move the backup folder to the new phone before you install WhatsApp.
How To Update WhatsApp On Android Using WhatsApp?
There could be problems with updates, or accessing Google PlayStore, or the updates are slow. Whatever be the issue, go for WhatsApp update download without Play Store. Here’s how you can do this:
Open WhatsApp.
- Select Options > Settings from the drop-down menu.
- Choose Check for Update.
- Install the update by following the prompts.
Also read: How To Hide WhatsApp DP From Others?
How Can You Update WhatsApp On Android Without Play Store?
For somebody installing APK for the first time, we recommend making a backup of your WhatsApp data. Or, if feasible, backup your entire smartphone, just in case something goes wrong. So, here’s how to use the APK installer to update WhatsApp on Android without using the Play Store:
- Go to APKMirror.com and search for WhatsApp on your device.
- Download the latest WhatsApp (non-beta) version: Go to the download page and pick the most recent version of WhatsApp that doesn’t have “beta” in the name.
- Choose the right version for your phone: You’ll be asked to choose between ARM, ARM64, or x86. Most phones use ARM, so try that first. If it doesn’t install, try x86 instead.
- Install the APK file: Once the file is downloaded, tap on it to start installing. If you can’t find it, check your Downloads folder (usually under Phone Storage > Download or DCIM > Download).
- Use a file explorer app if needed.
- Allow installation from unknown sources: If you see a message saying installation is blocked, it’s because your phone is set to only allow apps from the Play Store. Tap OK to allow it temporarily.
If that doesn’t work, go to:
Settings > Additional settings (or More) > Developer options
Then turn on Unknown sources.
By following this method, you can easily update WhatsApp without Play Store and have the latest version.
Also read: Tempered Glass Vs. Plastic Screen Protectors: Which One Is Better?
Note: You can also use this technique of installing WhatsApp APK on Android for any other program that you don’t want to install through the Play Store. However, be wary of fraudulent APK installers or APKs that don’t exist in the Play Store at all, especially if they come from unreliable websites.
Pro-Tip: How to Verify the WhatsApp APK is Safe
Worried the file might be a fake? APKMirror allows you to verify it.
- On the APKMirror download page, scroll down until you see a “Verified safe to install (read more)” note.
- Next to the file details, you’ll see a string of letters and numbers labeled SHA-1 or SHA-256. This is a unique digital fingerprint.
- The official WhatsApp APK will always have the same fingerprint. While you don’t need to check it manually, the fact that a reputable site like APKMirror shows you this fingerprint is a strong signal that the file is untouched and authentic.
Alternative Methods to Update WhatsApp Without Play Store
If the update inside WhatsApp or the APKMirror website doesn’t work, here are other safe ways:
- Go to whatsapp.com/android and download the APK file. This is the safest way to get the real WhatsApp.
- You can also use websites like APKPure. These sites have safe WhatsApp files. Check the site’s details to ensure the file is from WhatsApp.
- Download the WhatsApp file to your computer and move it to your phone. You can do that by using a USB cable, email, or cloud storage like Google Drive. Install it on your phone now.
Which Download Source is Right for You?
Before you download, it’s crucial to understand where the file is coming from. Not all sources are safe. Here’s a quick comparison:
| Feature | Official Website (whatsapp.com) | Trusted APK Site (APKMirror) | MOD Apps (GB WhatsApp, etc.) |
| Is it Safe? | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ❌ NO |
| Official Version? | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ❌ No (Altered) |
| Risk of Ban? | ✅ No Risk | ✅ No Risk | ⚠️ High Risk |
| Has Extra Features? | ✅ No | ✅ No | ⚠️ Yes (But unsafe) |
| Best For: | Everyone | When official site is blocked | Nobody (Avoid these!) |
Our Recommendation: Always try the Official Website first. Only use a trusted site like APKMirror if the official one doesn’t work. Never use MOD versions.
WhatsApp Update Troubleshooting Tips
“Install Blocked” Message
If you see this, your phone is stopping the install. To fix it:
- Go to Settings > Security > Unknown Sources
- Or go to Settings > Developer Options and turn it on
WhatsApp Crashes After Update
This can be because you downloaded the wrong file. To fix it:
- Make sure the APK file matches your phone (like ARM64)
- If it still crashes: Delete WhatsApp and install it again to restore the backup.
I can’t see the update:
Try these steps:
- Go to Settings > Apps > WhatsApp > Clear Cache
- Make sure your internet is working
- If you’re using the update button inside WhatsApp, check if your app version allows it
Phone Doesn’t Support the Update
If your phone is too old:
- Go to APKMirror and download an older version of WhatsApp
- Find one that works with your Android version (like Android 5.0)
Note: Old versions may not have new features or security.
I Can’t Find the Download File
Check your downloads folder or open the file manager app. Go to Phone Storage > Download or DCIM > Download.
easons To Update WhatsApp Without Playstore!
The problem may arise due to many reasons. These might include storage problems, location restrictions, or phone doesn’t have Google Play Services (like some Huawei phones or custom ROMs). Let’s see the top reasons and how you might be facing one of them.
| Problem | What It Means |
|---|---|
| Not Enough Space | Your phone doesn’t have enough storage to download or update WhatsApp. |
| Old Phone | Your phone may be too old to run the newest WhatsApp version. |
| Not Available in Country | WhatsApp might not be in your country’s Play Store because of local rules. |
| No Play Store | Some phones (like Huawei or custom ones) don’t have the Google Play Store. |
| Privacy Choice | Some people don’t use Google services because they care about privacy. |
| Slow Updates | Updates from the Play Store can be slow in some places, so people look elsewhere. |
By understanding these situations, you’ll be able to pick the best way to update WhatsApp and stay connected. Whatever the reasons, you can still update WhatsApp. This guide will teach you safe and easy methods to get the latest version of WhatsApp.
Conclusion
Updating WhatsApp without the Play Store is simple when you use a safe source. By downloading directly from the official website or a trusted site like APKMirror, you can keep your app up-to-date and secure. Just remember to back up your chats first!
Also read: How To Hide WhatsApp DP From Others?
FAQs
How do I manually update WhatsApp?
Open WhatsApp, go to Options > Settings, and select “Check for Update.” Follow the prompts to install any available updates.
How to update WhatsApp without Play Store?
Download the latest WhatsApp APK from a trusted site like APKMirror.com. Open the file, enable “Unknown Sources” in your settings if prompted, and install the update.
Why is my WhatsApp not updating?
If WhatsApp isn’t updating, it could be due to insufficient space on your device, incompatibility with your Android version, or the app not being available in your country.
How can I restore my WhatsApp update?
Delete and reinstall WhatsApp, then verify your phone number. During setup, choose to restore from your local backup to recover your chat history.
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