How to transfer WhatsApp chats from Android to iPhone

WhatsApp backups made on Android do not restore on an iPhone, because Google Drive backups and iCloud backups are separate. To move your chats you need the official transfer method. Check WhatsApp’s help pages before you start, since the requirements can change.

What you need

• Your old Android phone and your new iPhone, both charged or plugged in.
• The same phone number on both.
• The Move to iOS app on the Android phone, and the latest WhatsApp on both.
• A Wi-Fi connection that both phones can use.
• The iPhone usually has to be new or reset, because the transfer is offered during the first-time setup.

Steps

1. On the iPhone, start setup and reach the screen called Apps & Data. Choose Move Data from Android.
2. On the Android phone, open Move to iOS and enter the code shown on the iPhone.
3. Choose WhatsApp from the list of things to move, and follow the prompts. WhatsApp asks you to confirm on the Android phone.
4. When the transfer finishes, finish setting up the iPhone, install WhatsApp and log in with the same number. Choose to import the chats when asked.

What moves and what does not

• Moves: individual and group chats, media and settings.
• Does not move: call history and, usually, your display name. Check the current list on WhatsApp’s help pages.

If it does not work

1. Check both phones are on the latest WhatsApp, and the number is the same.
2. Keep both phones awake and close to each other.
3. If the iPhone is already set up, you may need to reset it to use this method. Back it up first.
4. As a last resort, keep the Android phone with WhatsApp installed and do not wipe it until you have checked the chats on the iPhone.

Before and after

Make a backup first. See how to back up your WhatsApp chats. After the move, protect your account. For everything else, see how to switch phones without losing anything.