How to backup (manual and via Google Drive) and restore WhatsApp chats ?

Backing up your chats

WhatsApp automatically backs up your messages daily (usually at 4 a.m.) and the backup file is saved on your phone's memory (WhatsApp > Databases > msgstore.db.crypt8). Before uninstalling WhatsApp manually back up your chats. Here are the steps you need to follow to manually backup your chats:

1. Go to WhatsApp > Menu Button > Settings > Chat Settings.
2. Tap on the option "Back up chats".

With a new update, WhatsApp also offers the option to backup your chats directly to Google Drive and was made automatic in the update version 2.12.5 under Settings > Chat Settings where you can trigger a manual backup but other than that WhatsApp chooses your default Google account (i.e. the account with which you are signed into your phone) to store backups in, as there is no option to choose where (ie. which login for Google Drive) to send backups to.

Restoring your chats

Your WhatsApp chats are automatically restored when you install WhatsApp next time (WhatsApp automatically finds the backed up chats and gives you an option to restore them).

Krittin Kalra

Krittin Kalra is a 20 year old Android freak. Striving for passions, chasing down his dreams and living a life without regrets is his sole mantra. A bit moody, he also does custom ROM reviews for AndroGuider. Currently pursuing his B.Tech, he aspires to follow his heart.