How To Move WhatsApp To A New Phone Without Losing Chats Or Media
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Getting a new smartphone is exciting, but transferring WhatsApp data can seem daunting. Fortunately, with the right steps, you can move all your messages, media, and groups to your new phone seamlessly—even if you're switching between Android devices or from iPhone to Android.
Using Google Drive to Transfer WhatsApp Backup
For Android users, WhatsApp automatically backs up your chats to Google Drive. This backup is linked to your phone number and Google account, so ensure both remain the same when switching to a new device.
Before starting the transfer, follow these steps to create a fresh backup:
Once the backup is done, insert the same SIM card into your new phone and log in to the same Google account. Install WhatsApp and open the app. When prompted, tap Restore to retrieve all your messages and media. A Wi-Fi connection is recommended for faster and safer downloads.
Manually Transferring WhatsApp Backup Using Local Files
If you prefer manual methods or can't access Google Drive, you can use WhatsApp’s local storage backup.
Here’s how to do it:
Now, install WhatsApp (don’t open it yet). Once the file is in place, open the app, verify the same phone number, and WhatsApp will detect the backup file. Tap Restore when prompted.
Transfer via PC (Optional)
You can also use a computer:
With these methods, your WhatsApp data will transfer smoothly, keeping your conversations and memories intact.
Using Google Drive to Transfer WhatsApp Backup
For Android users, WhatsApp automatically backs up your chats to Google Drive. This backup is linked to your phone number and Google account, so ensure both remain the same when switching to a new device.
Before starting the transfer, follow these steps to create a fresh backup:
- Open WhatsApp and tap the three-dot menu.
- Go to Settings > Chats > Chat backup.
- Tap the Back Up button to force a manual backup.
- To include videos, tick the Include Videos option before backing up.
Once the backup is done, insert the same SIM card into your new phone and log in to the same Google account. Install WhatsApp and open the app. When prompted, tap Restore to retrieve all your messages and media. A Wi-Fi connection is recommended for faster and safer downloads.
Manually Transferring WhatsApp Backup Using Local Files
If you prefer manual methods or can't access Google Drive, you can use WhatsApp’s local storage backup.
Here’s how to do it:
- On your old phone, open File Manager.
- Navigate to: Internal Storage > Android > media > com.whatsapp > WhatsApp > Databases.
- Find the latest backup file (e.g. msgstore.db.crypt14) and share it via email or cloud storage.
- On your new phone, create the same path: WhatsApp > Databases in internal storage.
- Copy the backup file to this new folder.
Now, install WhatsApp (don’t open it yet). Once the file is in place, open the app, verify the same phone number, and WhatsApp will detect the backup file. Tap Restore when prompted.
Transfer via PC (Optional)
You can also use a computer:
- Connect your old phone via USB.
- Copy the file from WhatsApp > Databases to your PC.
- Connect your new phone and paste the file into the same folder.
- Follow the same verification and restore steps.
With these methods, your WhatsApp data will transfer smoothly, keeping your conversations and memories intact.
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