How I Got WhatsApp Working on My BlackBerry Curve 8520 Using whatsapp-cod-alx-file
How to Install and Use WhatsApp on BlackBerry OS
Introduction
What is WhatsApp and why is it popular?
WhatsApp is a free, cross-platform messaging and calling app that lets you communicate with anyone who has the app installed on their phone. You can send text messages, voice messages, photos, videos, documents, stickers, and more using only an internet connection. You can also make voice and video calls, create group chats, and use end-to-end encryption to protect your privacy.
whatsapp-cod-alx-file
WhatsApp is one of the most popular apps in the world, with over 2 billion users in more than 180 countries. It is especially popular among friends and family who live in different countries and want to stay in touch without paying for expensive international calls or SMS. WhatsApp also offers many features and customizations that make it easy and fun to use.
What is BlackBerry OS and why is it discontinued?
BlackBerry OS is a proprietary mobile operating system developed by BlackBerry Limited for its BlackBerry line of smartphone handheld devices. The operating system provides multitasking and supports specialized input devices adopted by BlackBerry for use in its handhelds, such as the trackwheel, trackball, trackpad, and touchscreen.
BlackBerry OS was once one of the most popular mobile operating systems in the world, especially among business users who valued its security, productivity, and email capabilities. However, with the rise of Android and iOS devices, BlackBerry OS lost its market share and relevance. In 2017, BlackBerry announced that it would stop developing new devices running on BlackBerry OS, and instead focus on Android devices. In 2020, BlackBerry announced that it would end support for BlackBerry OS devices by January 2022.
What is whatsapp-cod-alx-file and why do you need it?
whatsapp-cod-alx-file is a file that contains the installation package of WhatsApp for BlackBerry OS devices. The file has two parts: a .cod file that contains the actual application code, and a .alx file that contains information about how to install the application on the device.
You need whatsapp-cod-alx-file if you want to install and use WhatsApp on your BlackBerry OS device, since the official WhatsApp app is no longer available on the BlackBerry World app store. You also need it if you want to update your existing WhatsApp app to the latest version, since the app will stop working after January 2022 unless you update it.
How to Download whatsapp-cod-alx-file
Option 1: From official WhatsApp website
The easiest and safest way to download whatsapp-cod-alx-file is from the official WhatsApp website. Here are the steps to follow:
Open the browser on your BlackBerry device and go to https://www.whatsapp.com/ota/.
You will see a message that says "WhatsApp for BlackBerry is available for download from this location. However, no valid BlackBerry browser has been detected. Please use your BlackBerry Browser when visiting this website."
Ignore this message and scroll down to the bottom of the page. You will see a link that says "Download Now". Tap on it.
You will be prompted to save the file whatsapp.cod.alx.zip to your device. Choose a location where you want to save it and tap on Save.
Once the file is downloaded, you will need to unzip it using a file manager app or a computer. You will get two files: WhatsApp.cod and WhatsApp.alx.
These are the files you need to install WhatsApp on your device. Proceed to the next section to learn how to install them.
Option 2: From third-party websites
If you cannot access the official WhatsApp website for some reason, you can try downloading whatsapp-cod-alx-file from other websites that host it. However, this is not recommended, as you may risk downloading a corrupted or malicious file that could harm your device or compromise your privacy. If you decide to use this option, make sure you download the file from a reputable and trusted source, and scan it with an antivirus app before installing it.
Here are some examples of websites that offer whatsapp-cod-alx-file for download:
https://www.apkmirror.com/apk/whatsapp-inc/whatsapp/whatsapp-2-21-12-21-release/whatsapp-messenger-2-21-12-21-android-apk-download/
https://www.apk4fun.com/apk/1059/
https://www.apkpure.com/whatsapp-messenger/com.whatsapp/download?from=details
Option 3: From other BlackBerry users
If you know someone who already has WhatsApp installed on their BlackBerry device, you can ask them to share the whatsapp-cod-alx-file with you via Bluetooth, email, or other methods. This way, you can get the file directly from a trusted source, without having to download it from the internet. However, make sure that the file they share with you is the latest version of WhatsApp, as older versions may not work properly or may stop working after January 2022.
How to Install whatsapp-cod-alx-file on BlackBerry OS
Step 1: Enable installation from unknown sources
Before you can install whatsapp-cod-alx-file on your BlackBerry device, you need to enable the option to install applications from unknown sources. This will allow you to install WhatsApp from a file that is not downloaded from the BlackBerry World app store. To do this, follow these steps:
On your BlackBerry device, go to Settings > Security and Privacy > Development Mode.
Turn on the switch for Development Mode. You may need to enter your device password to confirm.
You will see a warning message that says "Development Mode is intended for development purposes only. Installing applications from other sources could expose your device and personal data to security risks." Tap on OK to proceed.
You have now enabled installation from unknown sources. You can turn off Development Mode after you install WhatsApp.
Step 2: Connect your BlackBerry device to your computer
To install whatsapp-cod-alx-file on your BlackBerry device, you need to connect it to your computer using a USB cable. This will allow you to transfer the file from your computer to your device memory. To do this, follow these steps:
Plug one end of the USB cable into your BlackBerry device and the other end into your computer.
On your BlackBerry device, swipe down from the top of the screen and tap on USB Drive.
You will see a message that says "Your device is now connected as a USB drive. You can access files on your device using File Explorer on Windows or Finder on Mac." Tap on OK.
On your computer, open File Explorer (Windows) or Finder (Mac) and locate your BlackBerry device. It should appear as a removable drive with a name like BlackBerry or Z10.
You have now connected your BlackBerry device to your computer. You can transfer the whatsapp-cod-alx-file from your computer to your device memory in the next step.
Step 3: Copy the whatsapp-cod-alx-file to your device memory
Once you have connected your BlackBerry device to your computer, you need to copy the whatsapp-cod-alx-file from your computer to your device memory. This will allow you to install the file on your device using BlackBerry Desktop Manager. To do this, follow these steps:
On your computer, locate the whatsapp-cod-alx-file that you downloaded or received from another source. It should be a zip file that contains two files: WhatsApp.cod and WhatsApp.alx.
Right-click on the zip file and select Extract All. Choose a location where you want to extract the files and click on Extract.
You will get a folder that contains the two files: WhatsApp.cod and WhatsApp.alx.
Open the folder and select both files. Right-click on them and select Copy.
Go back to File Explorer (Windows) or Finder (Mac) and open your BlackBerry device. Navigate to a folder where you want to paste the files, such as Documents or Downloads.
Right-click on an empty space and select Paste. You will see the two files: WhatsApp.cod and WhatsApp.alx copied to your device memory.
You have now copied the whatsapp-cod-alx-file to your device memory. You can install the file on your device using BlackBerry Desktop Manager in the next step.
Step 4: Use BlackBerry Desktop Manager to install the file
To install whatsapp-cod-alx-file on your BlackBerry device, you need to use BlackBerry Desktop Manager, which is a software that allows you to manage your BlackBerry device from your computer. You can download it from https://www.blackberry.com/us/en/services/desktop. To do this, follow these steps:
On your computer, open BlackBerry Desktop Manager. If you don't have it installed, download it from the link above and follow the instructions to install it.
On your BlackBerry device, swipe down from the top of the screen and tap on USB Drive again. You will see a message that says "Your device is now connected as a USB drive. To use other features of BlackBerry Desktop Software, disconnect USB Drive mode." Tap on Disconnect.
You will see another message that says "Your device is now connected as a smartphone. You can use all features of BlackBerry Desktop Software." Tap on OK.
On your computer, you will see your BlackBerry device name and icon appear on BlackBerry Desktop Manager. Click on it.
You will see a list of options on the left side of the screen. Click on Applications.
You will see a list of applications installed on your device on the right side of the screen. Click on Import files.
A window will pop up that says "Select one or more application loader (.alx) files." Click on Browse.
Navigate to the folder where you copied the whatsapp-cod-alx-file on your device memory. Select WhatsApp.alx and click on Open.
You will see WhatsApp appear in the list of applications to be installed. Click on Apply.
You will see a progress bar that shows the installation process. Wait until it is completed.
You have now installed whatsapp-cod-alx-file on your BlackBerry device using BlackBerry Desktop Manager. You can launch WhatsApp and verify your phone number in the next step.
Step 5: Launch WhatsApp and verify your phone number
After you have installed whatsapp-cod-alx-file on your BlackBerry device, you need to launch WhatsApp and verify your phone number. This will allow you to activate your WhatsApp account and start using the app. To do this, follow these steps:
On your BlackBerry device, go to the home screen and tap on the WhatsApp icon.
You will see a welcome screen that says "Welcome to WhatsApp Messenger". Tap on Agree and Continue.
You will see a screen that asks you to enter your phone number. Choose your country code and type in your phone number. Tap on Next.
You will see a confirmation screen that shows the phone number you entered. Tap on OK if it is correct, or Edit if you want to change it.
You will receive a verification code via SMS or voice call. Enter the code in the box and tap on Next.
You will see a screen that asks you to enter your name and choose a profile picture. You can also skip this step and do it later. Tap on Next.
You have now launched WhatsApp and verified your phone number. You can start using the app to send and receive messages and calls.
How to Use WhatsApp on BlackBerry OS
How to send and receive messages and calls
Using WhatsApp on BlackBerry OS is similar to using it on other platforms. You can send and receive messages and calls with anyone who has WhatsApp installed on their phone. To do this, follow these steps:
On your BlackBerry device, open WhatsApp and tap on the Chats tab at the bottom of the screen.
To start a new chat, tap on the New Chat icon at the top right corner of the screen. You will see a list of your contacts who have WhatsApp. Tap on the contact you want to chat with, or use the search bar to find them.
To send a message, type in the text box at the bottom of the chat screen and tap on Send. You can also use emoticons, stickers, voice messages, photos, videos, documents, and more by tapping on the icons next to the text box.
To receive a message, you will see a notification on your device with the sender's name and a preview of the message. You can tap on the notification to open the chat screen, or swipe down from the top of the screen and tap on WhatsApp to see all your chats.
To make a voice or video call, tap on the Call icon at the top right corner of the chat screen. You will see two options: Voice Call and Video Call. Tap on the one you want to use. You can also switch between voice and video during a call by tapping on the Camera icon.
To receive a voice or video call, you will see a notification on your device with the caller's name and picture. You can tap on Answer to accept the call, or Decline to reject it. You can also swipe up from the bottom of the screen and tap on WhatsApp to see all your calls.
How to access WhatsApp features and settings
WhatsApp offers many features and settings that you can use to customize your experience and enhance your communication. You can access them by tapping on the Menu icon at the top left corner of the app. Here are some of the features and settings you can use:
Status: You can share your mood, thoughts, or activities with your contacts by posting a status update. You can use text, photos, videos, or GIFs to create your status. You can also view the status updates of your contacts by tapping on the Status tab at the bottom of the screen.
Settings: You can change your profile information, privacy settings, notifications, data usage, and more by tapping on Settings. You can also access help and support, invite friends to WhatsApp, and check for updates.
New Group: You can create a group chat with up to 256 people by tapping on New Group. You can name your group, add a picture, and invite contacts to join. You can also manage your group settings, such as adding or removing members, changing the group name or picture, muting notifications, or exiting the group.
New Broadcast: You can send a message to multiple contacts at once by tapping on New Broadcast. You can create a list of contacts who will receive your message, and they will not see each other's replies. This is useful for sending announcements, invitations, or reminders.
Starred Messages: You can mark important messages with a star by tapping and holding on them and selecting Star. You can access your starred messages by tapping on Starred Messages. This is useful for finding important information or reminders later.
Web/Desktop: You can use WhatsApp on your computer by scanning a QR code with your phone. You can access WhatsApp Web/Desktop by tapping on Web/Desktop. This is useful for typing faster, sending files from your computer, or using WhatsApp while working on your computer.
How to update WhatsApp on BlackBerry OS
Since WhatsApp is no longer available on the BlackBerry World app store, you cannot update it automatically or manually from there. However, you can still update it by downloading and installing the latest whatsapp-cod-alx-file from the official WhatsApp website or other sources. To do this, follow these steps:
On your BlackBerry device, open WhatsApp and tap on the Menu icon at the top left corner of the app.
Tap on Settings > Help > About.
You will see the version number of your WhatsApp app. Note it down or remember it.
Go to https://www.whatsapp.com/ota/ on your browser and check if there is a newer version available. If there is, download it as explained in the previous section.
Connect your BlackBerry device to your computer and copy the whatsapp-cod-alx-file to your device memory as explained in the previous section.
Open BlackBerry Desktop Manager and install the whatsapp-cod-alx-file as explained in the previous section.
You have now updated WhatsApp on your BlackBerry device. You can check if the update was successful by opening WhatsApp and going to Settings > Help > About again. You should see the new version number.
How to troubleshoot common issues with WhatsApp on BlackBerry OS
Sometimes, you may encounter some issues with WhatsApp on BlackBerry OS that prevent you from using the app properly. Here are some of the common issues and how to fix them:
WhatsApp not working after January 2022: If you have not updated your WhatsApp app to the latest version before January 2022, you may see a message that says "This version of WhatsApp has expired. Please go to App World and update it." However, since WhatsApp is no longer available on App World, you cannot update it from there. To fix this issue, you need to download and install the latest whatsapp-cod-alx-file from the official WhatsApp website or other sources as explained in the previous section.
WhatsApp not connecting to the internet: If you have trouble connecting to the internet with WhatsApp, you may see a message that says "Connecting..." or "Waiting for network..." at the top of the app. To fix this issue, you need to check your internet connection settings and make sure they are correct. To do this, follow these steps:
On your BlackBerry device, go to Settings > Network Connections > Mobile Network.
Make sure that Data Services is turned on.
Tap on APN Settings and make sure that APN Enabled is checked.
Enter the APN, Username, and Password provided by your mobile network operator. If you don't know them, you can contact your operator or search online for the correct settings.
Tap on Save and exit the settings.
Restart your BlackBerry device and open WhatsApp again. You should be able to connect to the internet with WhatsApp.
WhatsApp not sending or receiving messages or calls: If you have trouble sending or receiving messages or calls with WhatsApp, you may see a clock icon next to your messages or calls, or a message that says "Could not place call. Please try again later." To fix this issue, you need to check your date and time settings and make sure they are correct. To do this, follow these steps:
On your BlackBerry device, go to Settings > Date and Time.
Make sure that Set Date and Time Automatically is turned on.
If it is not turned on, turn it on and select your time zone.
If it is turned on, turn it off and set the date and time manually. Make sure they are accurate and match your time zone.
Tap on Save and exit the settings.
Restart your BlackBerry device and open WhatsApp again. You should be able to send and receive messages and calls with WhatsApp.
WhatsApp crashing or freezing: If WhatsApp crashes or freezes while you are using it, you may see a message that says "WhatsApp has stopped working" or "WhatsApp is not responding". To fix this issue,