Single Tap to Open Links Not Working in WhatsApp on iPhone 16? Here’s What to Do

Many iPhone 16.15,14, 11 etc on iOS 18 users have recently faced an unusual and frustrating issue that links in WhatsApp no longer open with a single tap. Instead, users are forced to long press and then select “Open” — something that used to happen instantly with just one tap, which is quite annoying.

If you’re facing this too, you’re not alone. Even links in Safari and Messages may behave similarly, while email links still open normally. Let’s break down why this might be happening and what you can do to fix it.

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What’s the Problem?

You used to:

• Tap once on a link in WhatsApp → it opened immediately.

Now:

• You tap once → nothing happens.
• You long press → get the “Open” option manually.

This issue seems to affect more than just WhatsApp. Users have noticed the same behavior in Safari and Messages, which suggests the problem may be linked to the iPhone’s system settings, not just the app.

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Potential Causes for Whatsapp link issue

• A recent iOS update may have changed how taps on links are handled.
• A gesture or accessibility setting might be interfering with touch responses.
• Haptic or touch delay settings may be contributing to the issue.
• WhatsApp or other apps may not be fully compatible with your current iOS version.

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How do I fix single tap to open links in WhatsApp on iPhone?

1. Close Whatsapp and Restart Your iPhone

Sometimes a simple restart resets touch recognition and responsiveness.

2. Update WhatsApp and iOS

• Go to the App Store and check for WhatsApp updates.
• Check under Settings → General → Software Update to make sure your iOS is current.

3. Check Accessibility Settings

• Go to Settings → Accessibility → Touch → Touch Accommodations.
• Make sure features like “Hold Duration” or “Ignore Repeat” are turned off unless needed.
• These settings can affect how your taps are interpreted.

4. Reset All Settings

• Go to Settings → General → Transfer or Reset iPhone → Reset → Reset All Settings.
• This will not erase your data, but it will reset system-level preferences and may fix the touch issue.

5. Reinstall WhatsApp

• Delete the app from your device.
• Restart your iPhone.
• Re-download WhatsApp from the App Store and sign in again.
• Make sure to back up your chats beforehand if needed.

6. Contact WhatsApp Support

If the issue is unique to WhatsApp, visit:
https://www.whatsapp.com/contact/?subject=messenger

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Conclusion on How do I fix single tap to open links in WhatsApp on iPhone :

Since the issue also affects Messages and Safari, this may not be just a WhatsApp problem. While Apple Support’s advice to do a factory reset is technically valid, it’s not convenient and should be your last resort.

Until a permanent fix is confirmed, these steps offer the best chance at restoring the expected tap-to-open link behavior on your iPhone.