How to Backup WhatsApp on Android — Full Guide 2026
WhatsApp backups on Android can go to Google Drive (recommended) or local phone storage. This guide covers both methods plus restore instructions.
Two Types of WhatsApp Backup on Android
Google Drive Backup
Recommended. Saves to your Google Drive, accessible from any device. Automatic backups on your chosen schedule.
Local Backup
Saved to phone storage. Manual only. Good for extra backup before factory reset or phone switch.
Set Up Google Drive Backup
Follow these steps to enable automatic WhatsApp backup to Google Drive:
- Open WhatsApp on your Android phone
- Tap the three dots(⋮) in the top right
- Tap Settings
- Tap Chats→ Chat backup
- Tap Back up to Google Drive
- Choose backup frequency: Daily, Weekly, Monthly, or Only when I tap "Back Up"
- Tap Google accountto select your account (or add new)
- Choose network: WiFi only(recommended) or WiFi or cellular
- Tap Back upto start immediately
What Gets Backed Up?
Included in Backup
- ✓ All messages
- ✓ Photos & videos
- ✓ Voice notes
- ✓ Documents
- ✓ Calls (if enabled)
NOT Included
- ✗ Status updates
- ✗ Call history (separate)
- ✗ Draft messages
- ✗ Starred messages (separate)
Restore WhatsApp from Google Drive Backup
To restore your chats on a new phone or after reinstalling:
- Uninstall WhatsApp from your phone
- Reinstall WhatsApp from Google Play Store
- Open WhatsApp and verify your phone number
- WhatsApp will automatically detect Google Drive backup
- Tap Restoreto begin
- Wait for restore to complete (varies by size)
- Tap Nextwhen done
Local Backup — Manual Android Backup
Local backups are created automatically every day and stored on your phone. You can also create manual backups:
- Go to Settings→ Chats→ Chat backup
- Tap Back up(not "Back up to Google Drive")
- Wait for backup to complete
Where Are Local Backups Stored?
Path: Android/media/com.whatsapp/WhatsApp/Databases/
File format: msgstore-YYYY-MM-DD.1.db.crypt15
End-to-End Encrypted Backups
For extra security, enable end-to-end encrypted backups:
- Go to Settings→ Chats→ Chat backup
- Tap End-to-end encrypted backup
- Tap Turn on
- Create a 64-digit key or save to Google Drive
- Complete authentication
Troubleshooting WhatsApp Backup Issues
Backup stuck or taking too long
Use WiFi instead of mobile data. Large backups can take hours. Keep phone plugged in and screen on.
"No Google account found"
Add your Google account in phone Settings → Accounts before backing up.
"Insufficient storage"
Free up space in Google Drive or phone storage. Delete old backups.
Backup not appearing in Google Drive
Check WhatsApp backup folder in Google Drive. Sometimes it takes hours to appear after initial backup.
Restore failed
If restore fails, your backup may be corrupted. Try local backup instead or contact WhatsApp support.
FAQ: WhatsApp Backup on Android
How often should I backup WhatsApp?
Daily is best if you use WhatsApp frequently. Weekly is okay for casual users.
Does WhatsApp backup include story views?
No. Status updates and story views are not included in backups.
Can I transfer WhatsApp between Android and iPhone?
Yes, but you need a third-party tool or email chats. There's no direct restore between platforms.