Table of contents
- Why updating WhatsApp is important
- How to update WhatsApp on Android
- How to update WhatsApp on iPhone
- Check the installed version of WhatsApp
- Update WhatsApp on Android tablets
- How to take a screenshot on WhatsApp after the update
- Automatic updates: pros and cons
- Security measures to keep in mind
- Common doubts and quick solutions
Have you ever wondered how to update WhatsApp and why it’s so important to do it regularly? Many users install the app once and then forget about updates, not realizing that each new version comes with security improvements, new features, and bug fixes. Others, instead, face technical doubts: they don’t know whether the app updates automatically or if they have to do it manually.
In this guide, I’ll explain clearly and directly how to update WhatsApp, both on Android devices and iPhones, also covering specific cases such as Android tablets or the use of WhatsApp Web. We’ll also see how to manage automatic updates, how to check the WhatsApp version installed on your phone, and, after the update, how to perform common functions such as taking a screenshot on WhatsApp.
Why updating WhatsApp is important
Updating an app is not just a whim: it’s a fundamental measure for your security and for the proper functioning of the service. WhatsApp Messenger is an app used by billions of people worldwide and, for this very reason, it is constantly targeted by hackers and malicious actors.
Every time developers release an update, it could be aimed at fixing a discovered vulnerability. If you don’t update, you risk leaving a security hole open that can compromise your personal data or privacy.
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In addition, new versions introduce useful functions: the ability to send disappearing messages, make calls on multiple devices, and support newer operating systems.
How to update WhatsApp on Android
If you use an Android device, updating is done through the Google Play Store. Here are the steps:
- Open the Play Store from your Android phone or tablet.
- Tap the icon with three lines in the top right corner to access the menu (or your avatar in the latest versions).
- Select “Manage apps and device.”
- In the “Updates available” section, look for WhatsApp Messenger.
- If available, tap the “Update” button.
If you prefer not to worry about it anymore, you can enable automatic updates:
- Open the WhatsApp page in the Play Store.
- Tap the three dots in the top right corner.
- Check “Enable auto-update.”
This way, the app will update itself every time a new version is released.
How to update WhatsApp on iPhone
If you use an iPhone, the procedure is similar but goes through the App Store.
- Open the App Store.
- Tap your profile picture in the top right corner.
- Scroll down until you find the updates section.
- If you see WhatsApp, tap “Update.”
You can also enable automatic updates on iPhone:
- Go to Settings > App Store.
- Turn on the “App Updates” option.
This way, WhatsApp and all other apps will update without your intervention.
Check the installed version of WhatsApp
Sometimes, to solve a problem or verify if you have the latest features, it can be useful to know which version of WhatsApp you have on your phone.
- On Android: open WhatsApp > Settings > Help > App info.
- On iPhone: go to WhatsApp > Settings > Help > App info.
Here you’ll find the version number, which you can compare with the one on the official WhatsApp website or your device’s store.
Update WhatsApp on Android tablets
Many people wonder if it’s possible to install and update WhatsApp on an Android tablet. Officially, WhatsApp isn’t designed for tablets without a SIM, but there are two options:
- Use WhatsApp Web through a browser.
- Install the app from the Play Store if the device is compatible.
In the second case, the update follows the same procedure as Android smartphones.
How to take a screenshot on WhatsApp after the update
A common question is: how to take a screenshot on WhatsApp after the update? Some fear that new versions may change the procedure, but that’s not the case:
- On Android, press the power button and the volume down button simultaneously.
- On iPhone, press the side button and the volume up button (or Home + power on older models).
The screenshot works the same as always, regardless of the update. However, some additional features may block its use in particularly sensitive chats (for example, for privacy reasons).
Automatic updates: pros and cons
Many users prefer to enable automatic updates so they don’t have to remember to do it manually. This is a recommended choice, especially for those who don’t want to risk security issues.
However, there are also some drawbacks:
- An update might introduce temporary bugs.
- Some users prefer to wait for reviews before installing the new version.
In general, the advice is to keep automatic updates enabled, but with the awareness that, in rare cases, it may be useful to postpone the update for a few days.
Security measures to keep in mind
In addition to knowing how to update WhatsApp, it’s essential to adopt some security measures that ensure the protection of your conversations and personal data.
The first rule is to download WhatsApp only from official stores – Google Play Store for Android and App Store for iPhone – avoiding APK files or download links from unverified websites. These can contain modified or infected versions that may compromise your device.
Another important measure is to periodically verify that end-to-end encryption is active in chats: open a conversation with a contact and select the menu in the top right corner, where you’ll find the option to check the security code. This way, you can be sure that only you and your contact can read the messages.
Also, remember to enable two-step verification: this is an additional PIN code that protects your account from unauthorized access, even if someone knows your phone number. This option is available in Settings > Account > Two-step verification.
Finally, don’t neglect operating system updates: having an updated Android or iOS is as important as updating WhatsApp itself, because it reduces the risk of exploiting security vulnerabilities at the device level.
Common doubts and quick solutions
As you can see, learning how to update WhatsApp is not complicated, but it’s normal to have thousands of doubts with so many options available. Here are the most common answers:
- WhatsApp doesn’t update automatically? Check if automatic updates are enabled.
- Is my operating system no longer compatible? WhatsApp periodically stops supporting outdated versions of Android or iOS. In this case, you may need to update the system or change device.
- Storage space is full? Free up memory by deleting unnecessary files to allow the update.
- Does WhatsApp Web update? The web version updates automatically; you don’t need to do anything.
In summary
We have thoroughly explained how to update WhatsApp on Android, iPhone, and tablets, how to check the installed version, how to manage automatic updates, and even how to take a screenshot on WhatsApp after the update. Updating the app regularly means protecting your data and taking advantage of the latest features.
Whether you’re a tech expert or a user with technical doubts, now you know exactly how to update WhatsApp.
Questions and answers
- Why is it important to update WhatsApp?
To ensure security, fix bugs, and access new features. - How to update WhatsApp on Android?
From the Play Store, in the “Updates available” section, by pressing “Update.” - How to update WhatsApp on iPhone?
From the App Store, in the updates section, by tapping the “Update” button. - Are updates automatic?
Yes, if you enable the feature from the device stores. - How to check the WhatsApp version?
From the app’s settings, in the App info section. - Does WhatsApp work on Android tablets?
Yes, if compatible or through WhatsApp Web. - How to take a screenshot on WhatsApp?
By pressing the power and volume buttons simultaneously, depending on the model. - What if I can’t update WhatsApp?
Check your connection, free up space, and verify system compatibility. - Does WhatsApp Web update?
Yes, automatically without manual action. - Can updates cause problems?
In rare cases, yes, but they’re usually quickly fixed with new versions.
