Switching from the standard version of WhatsApp to the beta version allows you to test out new features before they are officially released. The beta version gives you early access to the latest updates and lets you provide feedback directly to WhatsApp. However, it’s important to keep in mind that the beta version may contain bugs or instability since features are still in development. Here are the steps to change to WhatsApp beta:
Requirements
Before switching to the beta version, make sure your device meets the following requirements:
- You must be using an Android device. WhatsApp beta is not available for iOS.
- Your device must be running Android 5.0 or higher.
- You need to have the standard version of WhatsApp already installed.
- Your phone should have enough storage space to install the beta version.
- You’ll need a reliable internet connection to download and install the update.
Back Up Your Chats
To avoid losing your chat history and media when switching to the beta, you should back up your chats first:
- Open WhatsApp and tap the More options icon (3 vertical dots in top right).
- Go to Settings > Chats > Chat backup.
- Tap Back up to either back up to Google Drive if you have an Android device or iCloud if you have an iPhone.
- Tap Back up now to manually trigger an immediate back up.
Join the WhatsApp Beta Program
Here is how to join the WhatsApp beta program and become a beta tester:
- Open the Play Store app on your Android phone.
- Search for “WhatsApp” and open the WhatsApp app page.
- Scroll down and look for the “Become a beta tester” option.
- Tap the “I’m In” button to join the program.
Once you join the beta program, you’ll start receiving updates for the beta version of WhatsApp through the Play Store.
Update to the Beta Version
After joining the beta program, follow these steps to update to the latest beta version of WhatsApp:
- Open the Play Store app.
- Pull down on the screen to refresh and check for app updates.
- You should see an update available for WhatsApp. Tap Update.
- The latest beta version will download and install.
- Once installed, open WhatsApp. You are now on the beta.
Differences in the Beta Version
Here are some of the key differences you’ll notice when using the WhatsApp beta compared to the standard version:
- New features may be buggy or unstable.
- You’ll see text indicating you’re using a beta version.
- Some features may look different or be missing.
- You’ll get updates more frequently, sometimes multiple per week.
- Group calls may have lower participant limits.
- Sending media files may be slower.
Provide Feedback
As a beta tester, you can provide valuable feedback to help improve WhatsApp before new features launch to the public. Here are some ways to share feedback:
- Rate the app and leave reviews on the Play Store.
- Tap Send feedback within WhatsApp to report issues.
- Join the WhatsApp beta tester community to discuss with other testers.
- Take beta user surveys that WhatsApp sends out.
- Report bugs or crashes through shake gestures.
Leave the Beta Program
If you want to go back to the standard version of WhatsApp, here is how to leave the beta program:
- Open the Play Store and go to the WhatsApp page.
- Scroll down and tap the “Leave” button to opt out of beta testing.
- You’ll stop getting beta updates.
- To switch back to stable version, uninstall WhatsApp beta, then reinstall WhatsApp.
Leaving the beta program will revert you to the standard public release of WhatsApp and you’ll no longer get early access to unreleased features.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the WhatsApp beta safe to use?
The WhatsApp beta is generally safe to use as your daily driver, but you may encounter more bugs or instability since it’s under active development. Be sure to back up chats regularly. Avoid using the beta version on your primary device if you require reliability.
Can I install the beta without uninstalling normal WhatsApp?
Unfortunately, you can’t run the stable and beta versions of WhatsApp side-by-side. You’ll need to uninstall the current version before installing the beta.
How often does the beta version get updated?
The beta version typically gets updated around 1-2 times per week as the WhatsApp team releases new fixes and features frequently. However, some weeks may see more or fewer updates depending on development activity.
Will the beta drain my phone’s battery faster?
In some cases, running the beta version can drain your battery slightly faster due to instability and constant updates. Keep an eye on your battery usage and close WhatsApp completely if you notice significant drain.
Can I revert back to the stable version at any time?
Yes, you can opt out of the beta program and revert to the standard version of WhatsApp at any time. Simply leave the beta in the Play Store, uninstall WhatsApp beta, and reinstall the stable release.
Will my chat history be deleted if I switch from stable to beta?
Your chat history and media will be preserved when switching from stable to beta as long as you properly back up your chats before installing the beta version. Never uninstall WhatsApp without backing up first.
Am I guaranteed to get new features before non-beta users?
Most new features come to beta testers first, but there’s no guarantee you’ll always get access before the public release. WhatsApp may do a staged rollout of new features even within the beta program.
Conclusion
Switching over to the WhatsApp beta can give you early previews of exciting new features before they hit the mainstream app. However, you’ll encounter more instability and bugs. Make sure to backup chats, provide feedback, and revert to the stable release if the beta becomes too frustrating for daily use.