How to Export and Backup WhatsApp Chats in 2026

Have you ever worried about losing your important WhatsApp conversations, photos, or documents?

In today’s digital age, our chats hold valuable personal and business information, making it essential to keep them safe. Whether you’re switching to a new phone, freeing up storage, or simply securing your memories, exporting and backing up your WhatsApp chats in 2026 has never been easier.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about saving your chats, from creating secure backups to exporting conversations in different formats. By the end, you’ll have complete control over your WhatsApp data and peace of mind knowing it’s safe and accessible whenever you need it.

Let’s dive in and explore the simplest and most effective ways to export and back up your WhatsApp chats in 2026.

Why Export and Backup WhatsApp Chats?

In 2026, our WhatsApp conversations are more than just casual messages — they often include important memories, business discussions, financial transactions, and even sensitive personal details. Losing this data can be stressful and inconvenient, which is why creating a secure backup has become essential. Exporting and backing up your chats ensures that you always have access to your valuable information, no matter what happens to your device.

Ensures Data Safety

Smartphones can get lost, damaged, or infected with malware at any time. Without a proper backup, you risk losing years of conversations, documents, and media files in an instant. By regularly exporting and backing up your WhatsApp chats, you can keep your data secure and recover it whenever needed.

Makes Switching Phones Easier

Upgrading to a new phone is exciting, but the process can be stressful if you’re worried about losing your WhatsApp data. With backups, transferring your chats, media, and settings to a new device becomes seamless. Whether you’re switching from Android to iPhone or vice versa, having an export or backup ready saves you from starting over.

Useful for Business Record-Keeping

For business owners and professionals, WhatsApp is more than just a messaging app — it’s a communication hub. Important client details, invoices, and project updates are often shared via chat. Exporting and backing up these conversations ensures you maintain proper business records, which can be helpful for audits, disputes, or customer support.

Enhances Privacy and Control

In today’s digital world, privacy matters more than ever. By exporting your WhatsApp chats, you get full control over where and how your data is stored. Instead of relying entirely on cloud backups, you can save your chats locally or on secure storage, giving you greater flexibility and peace of mind.

Keeps Your Memories Safe

From family conversations to vacation photos and voice notes, WhatsApp holds countless personal memories. A backup ensures you don’t lose these priceless moments due to accidental deletion, device issues, or app glitches.

Different Ways to Export WhatsApp Chats

WhatsApp offers multiple options to export your chats, depending on whether you’re using an Android phone, iPhone, or WhatsApp Web/Desktop. Exporting chats helps you keep important conversations safe, share them with others, or move them to a different device. Below are the updated and detailed methods for 2026.

Exporting Chats on Android

Step 1. Open WhatsApp

Open the WhatsApp app on your Android phone. Make sure you’re signed in to the account that holds the chat you want to export; exporting requires access to that conversation.

Step 2. Go to the chat you want to export

Navigate to the individual or group chat you want to save. Exporting from the correct chat is important because WhatsApp exports one conversation at a time (unless you use third-party tools).

Step 3. Tap the three dots (menu) in the top-right corner

In the chat screen, tap the three vertical dots to open the chat menu. This reveals options like “Search,” “Wallpaper,” and “More,” which contains the export command.

Step 4. Select More → Export chat

Choose More, then tap Export chat. WhatsApp will prompt you for the next choice — whether to include media or not — and then present sharing/saving options.

Step 5. Choose whether to include media or not

You’ll be asked to export With Media or Without Media. Including media packages images, videos, and voice notes but can drastically increase file size. Choose based on whether you need attachments and whether your target storage (email, Drive, etc.) supports large files.

Step 6. Pick where to save or share the exported file

After choosing media options, pick the destination: save to Google Drive, send via Gmail, save to Files, or share to another app. The chat is exported as a .txt file (and media as attachments or a zipped folder depending on the destination).

Step 7. Verify the saved export and test it on another device

Open the exported file from the destination to confirm the chat was saved correctly and media (if included) are accessible. Testing ensures you won’t lose important information later and shows if you need to re-export with different options.

Exporting Chats on iPhone

Step 1. Open WhatsApp on your iPhone

Launch WhatsApp and make sure the account is active and synced. iPhone has a slightly different layout than Android but the export function is available in the chat’s info screen.

Step 2. Open the chat you want to export

Tap the conversation (individual or group) whose history you want to save. Exports on iPhone are also per-chat, so be sure you’re in the right thread.

Step 3. Tap the contact or group name at the top to open Contact Info

Tap the name at the top of the screen to open the contact or group info page. This page contains options like media, search, and the Export Chat command.

Step 4. Scroll and choose Export Chat

Scroll down and tap Export Chat. iOS will present the option to include media or export text only — similar to Android — and then open the iOS share sheet.

Step 5. Decide whether to attach media or export text only

Choosing to attach media includes photos, videos, and voice messages. Note that including media can turn the export into a larger package that iOS may compress or attach as separate files.

Step 6. Select the destination: Mail, Save to Files, AirDrop, etc.

Pick where to send the exported chat. If you choose Mail, the chat will attach as a .txt file and media as separate attachments or a zipped bundle depending on size. Using Save to Files lets you store the export in iCloud Drive or on-device storage for later retrieval.

Step 7. Open and check the exported file to make sure everything is correct

Open the exported file from the chosen location to confirm that messages and attachments (if included) were saved properly. Verifying avoids surprises when you later need to restore or present the conversation.

Exporting Chats via Email

Step 1. Open the chat and invoke Export Chat (Android or iPhone)

From the target chat, use Export Chat (Android: More → Export chat; iPhone: Contact Info → Export Chat) to start the export workflow that supports emailing.

Step 2. Choose whether to include media or not

You’ll be prompted to include media. If you expect to email a long conversation or many media files, consider exporting text-only to keep the email size manageable; otherwise, be ready for large attachments or a zipped file.

Step 3. Select Mail (or your email app) from the share sheet

When the share options appear, choose your email app. WhatsApp attaches the chat as a .txt file and adds media as attachments or a compressed archive if supported by the sharing flow.

Step 4. Address the email to yourself (or intended recipient) and send

Enter the email address you want the chat delivered to, add a subject that makes sense (like “WhatsApp chat backup – [Contact Name]”), then send. Using your own email ensures you keep a copy in your inbox for long-term storage.

Step 5. Open the email and download the chat file and attachments

Once the email arrives, open it and download the .txt file and any attached media to confirm everything transferred correctly. Save them to a secure folder or cloud storage for safekeeping.

Step 6. Organize and archive the exported chat for future use

Rename the exported file clearly (date and contact name are helpful) and move it to a dedicated backup folder in your email, cloud drive, or local storage so you can find it later without digging.

Exporting Chats Using WhatsApp Web/Desktop

Step 1. Open WhatsApp Web or Desktop and sign in by scanning the QR code

Go to web.whatsapp.com or open the WhatsApp Desktop app and scan the QR code from your phone’s WhatsApp (Settings → Linked Devices → Link a Device). This connects your account to the computer.

Step 2. Open the chat you want to export

Click the conversation on the left pane so the messages load in the main window. WhatsApp Web displays messages in a continuous scroll which you can copy or capture.

Step 3. Select or highlight the chat text you need to export

Click and drag with your mouse (or use Shift+click) to highlight the portions you want to save. For very long chats, select a sensible chunk at a time to avoid browser or clipboard limits.

Step 4. Copy the selected text and paste it into a document (Word, Notepad, Google Docs)

After copying, paste the content into a text editor or document on your computer. This produces a clean, editable transcript that you can format, timestamp, or add notes to as needed.

Step 5. Save media files separately by right-clicking and downloading or using the Download option

Images, videos, and voice notes need to be downloaded individually (right-click → Save as) or via the media pane for the chat. WhatsApp Web shows a media gallery for that conversation you can open and download from.

Step 6. Save the document and organize files on your computer or cloud storage

Save the text file and media into a dedicated folder and back it up to cloud storage if desired. Add a clear filename and date stamp so you can quickly find the conversation later.

Step 7. Optional: Use third-party desktop export tools carefully (and securely)

There are desktop tools that automate full chat exports (including media) from WhatsApp Web. If you choose a tool, pick a reputable provider, read reviews, and avoid giving unnecessary permissions. Always scan downloaded files for malware and respect privacy and legal rules when exporting chats that involve others.

How to Backup WhatsApp Chats Automatically

Keeping your WhatsApp chats safe is easier than ever in 2026, thanks to built-in automatic backup options. Whether you’re an Android or iPhone user, WhatsApp allows you to back up your chats to the cloud or store them locally on your device. Enabling automatic backups ensures that you never lose your messages, photos, videos, and documents, even if you switch phones or accidentally delete chats.

Backup on Google Drive (Android Users)

For Android users, Google Drive is the most convenient way to automatically back up WhatsApp chats. Follow these steps to enable backups:

Step 1: Open WhatsApp Settings

Launch WhatsApp on your Android device and tap the three-dot menu at the top-right corner. From the dropdown, select Settings.

Step 2: Go to Chat Backup

Inside the settings menu, tap Chats and then select Chat Backup.

Step 3: Connect Google Account

Tap Google Account and choose the Gmail account you want to use for storing backups. If you haven’t added one, you can log in directly.

Step 4: Set Backup Frequency

Choose how often you want WhatsApp to back up your chats — options include Daily, Weekly, Monthly, or Only when I tap “Back up”.

Step 5: Include Media (Optional)

You can choose whether to include photos, videos, and documents in the backup. Since videos take up more space, it’s optional to exclude them if storage is limited.

Step 6: Enable Auto Backup

Finally, tap Back Up to start the initial process, and WhatsApp will automatically continue backing up your chats at the selected interval.

Backup on iCloud (iPhone Users)

If you’re an iPhone user, WhatsApp offers seamless integration with iCloud to store your chat history securely. Here’s how to enable automatic backups:

Step 1: Open WhatsApp Settings

Open WhatsApp on your iPhone and tap the Settings tab in the bottom-right corner.

Step 2: Go to Chats

Inside settings, select Chats and then tap Chat Backup.

Step 3: Enable iCloud Drive

Ensure iCloud Drive is turned on in your iPhone’s system settings. Go to Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud and toggle iCloud Drive on.

Step 4: Set Backup Preferences

Tap Auto Backup and choose how often WhatsApp should back up your chats — Daily, Weekly, or Monthly.

Step 5: Include Videos (Optional)

Turn on the Include Videos option if you want videos saved in the backup.

Step 6: Perform Initial Backup

Tap Back Up Now to start the process, and WhatsApp will automatically back up your chats based on your chosen schedule.

Local Backup on Device Storage

For users who prefer to keep their data offline, WhatsApp also supports local backups saved directly on your phone’s internal memory or SD card. Here’s how to enable and use local backups:

Step 1: Open Chat Backup Settings

Go to WhatsApp > Settings > Chats > Chat Backup.

Step 2: Trigger Local Backup

Tap Back Up without selecting Google Drive or iCloud. This creates a local backup stored directly on your device.

Step 3: Locate Backup File

On Android, navigate to Internal Storage > WhatsApp > Databases to find the local backup file. For iPhone, backups are stored within the app’s data, accessible via iTunes or Finder.

Step 4: Transfer Local Backup

You can manually copy this backup file to an SD card, another device, or your computer for extra safety.

Local backups are a great option if you want complete control over your data and prefer not to use cloud services.

How to Restore WhatsApp Chats from Backup

Restoring your WhatsApp chats is simple if you’ve already backed them up. Whether you’re switching phones, reinstalling WhatsApp, or recovering lost data, you can easily restore chats from either cloud storage or a local backup.

Restoring from Google Drive (Android Users)

Install WhatsApp on your new or reset Android device.
Verify your phone number when prompted.
WhatsApp will detect the available Google Drive backup automatically.
Tap Restore to retrieve all your chats, photos, and documents.
Once the process is complete, tap Next to start using WhatsApp.

Restoring from iCloud (iPhone Users)

Install WhatsApp on your new or reset iPhone.
Open the app and verify your phone number.
WhatsApp will prompt you to restore your chat history from iCloud.
Tap Restore Chat History and wait for the process to finish.

Restoring from Local Backup (Android Users Only)

Copy the backup file from your old device’s WhatsApp > Databases folder to the same folder on your new phone.
Install WhatsApp and verify your number.
WhatsApp will detect the local backup automatically.
Tap Restore to recover your chats.

Best Practices for WhatsApp Chat Backup in 2026

Backing up your WhatsApp chats is not just about saving messages; it’s about ensuring your important data stays secure and accessible whenever you need it. To make your backups safer and more effective in 2026, here are some key practices you should follow:

Schedule Automatic Backups

Set up automatic backups to avoid losing your chat history. WhatsApp allows you to choose daily, weekly, or monthly backup schedules. Selecting daily backups ensures your conversations, media, and documents are always up-to-date without you having to remember to do it manually.

Use Both Cloud and Local Storage

Relying on just one storage option can be risky. Use cloud storage like Google Drive or iCloud for convenience and accessibility, but also keep a local backup on your device storage or SD card. This dual approach ensures you have access to your chats even if your cloud account faces issues.

Encrypt Sensitive Data

If you share personal or business-related information on WhatsApp, encrypt your backups for added security. WhatsApp offers end-to-end encrypted backups, which protect your data from unauthorized access, even if someone gets hold of your backup files.

Backing up and exporting your WhatsApp chats in 2026 is easier and safer than ever, but it’s still important to follow best practices to avoid data loss. Whether you’re switching devices, clearing storage, or just keeping a personal record, always:

Schedule automatic backups to ensure you never miss important data.
Use both cloud and local storage for double protection.
Encrypt sensitive information to keep your data secure.
Keep your backups updated and test them occasionally.

By taking these precautions and knowing how to fix common issues, you can ensure your WhatsApp data stays safe, accessible, and ready whenever you need it.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How can I export my WhatsApp chats in 2026?

You can export chats using your Android or iPhone settings, via email, or through WhatsApp Web/Desktop. Go to Chat > More > Export Chat on Android or Settings > Chat > Export Chat on iPhone.

Can I back up my WhatsApp chats without using Google Drive or iCloud?

Yes, you can create a local backup on your device storage or SD card. However, it’s recommended to also use cloud storage for safer and easier restores.

How often should I back up my WhatsApp chats?

Ideally, set up daily automatic backups to avoid losing recent conversations. If storage is limited, weekly backups are a good alternative.

Why is my WhatsApp backup stuck or failing?

Backup failures usually happen due to insufficient storage, poor internet connection, or outdated app versions. Free up space, update WhatsApp, and retry the backup.

Can I restore WhatsApp chats on a new phone?

Yes. As long as you’ve backed up your chats to Google Drive (Android) or iCloud (iPhone), you can restore them during WhatsApp setup on your new device.

Are WhatsApp backups secure?

Backups on Google Drive and iCloud are encrypted, but for extra safety, enable end-to-end encrypted backups in WhatsApp settings.

Can I export an entire WhatsApp chat with media?

Yes. When exporting, WhatsApp will ask if you want to include media like photos, videos, and voice notes. Keep in mind that including media may increase the file size.