On Reddit, one user recently shared: “The WhatsApp app is getting stuck on the opening black screen of my iPhone 13.”
This isn’t just happening to iPhone 13 users — owners of newer models, including the iPhone 17, have also reported that WhatsApp won’t open, freezes on the splash screen, or immediately crashes.
If you’re facing the same issue, don’t worry — you’re not alone. Below, we’ll explain why this happens in 2025 and how you can fix WhatsApp not opening on your iPhone, step by step.
Why WhatsApp May Not Open on iPhone in 2025
Several common reasons are behind the “WhatsApp stuck on opening screen” problem:
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Corrupted cache or installation files – If the app’s data becomes corrupted, WhatsApp can freeze before fully loading.
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Storage almost full – Low storage can stop iOS from loading certain apps correctly.
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Outdated WhatsApp version – Older builds may crash on new iOS frameworks.
- System-level bugs – Temporary OS glitches or conflicts with background apps.
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Step-by-Step Fixes for WhatsApp Not Opening
1. Restart Your iPhone
Hold the Side Button + Volume Up/Down until you see the power slider. Power off, wait 30 seconds, and turn it back on.
2. Delete WhatsApp and Reinstall It (After Backing Up)
If the app continues to freeze, a complete reinstall often helps:
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Open WhatsApp → Settings → Chats → Chat Backup → Back Up Now.
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Delete WhatsApp from your home screen.
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Reinstall it from the App Store, then restore your backup.
3. Try Installing WhatsApp Business Instead
Several users found success by temporarily installing WhatsApp Business — which runs on the same backend but as a separate app.
After installing it and logging in, the app may initialize properly, helping clear cache or account-related issues.
Once WhatsApp Business opens normally, you can switch back to the regular WhatsApp app if preferred.
4. Check for WhatsApp and iOS Updates
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Go to App Store → WhatsApp → Update
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Then go to Settings → General → Software Update
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If a new version is available, install it. Both WhatsApp and iOS updates often include important bug fixes.
5. Clear Storage Space
Head to Settings → General → iPhone Storage and make sure you have at least 1–2 GB free.
Delete unnecessary photos, videos, or unused apps. WhatsApp needs storage to run properly.
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If It’s Still Broken
If you’ve tried all of the above and WhatsApp still won’t open — don’t stress too much. You can contact WhatsApp support from another device: Settings → Help → Contact Us.
Final Thoughts
The “WhatsApp not opening on iPhone” bug in 2025 is annoying but usually not serious.
In most cases, it’s a small software hiccup that a restart, update, or reinstall can fix.
Personally, reinstalling the app after a clean backup solved it for me — and it’s been smooth since. Hopefully, these steps get your WhatsApp running again too.
