The popularity of Android has led many iPhone users to consider switching operating systems. Among the main questions that arise during this process is how to switch. Migrate WhatsApp from iPhone to Android keeping the app's chats, photos, videos, and files intact.
WhatsApp is an essential tool for millions of people, and losing important data when switching phones is unacceptable. Fortunately, Today it is possible to transfer WhatsApp from iOS to Android with official systems and third-party alternatives, although there are specific requirements and steps to follow to avoid errors or loss of information.
Can you transfer WhatsApp from iPhone to Android?
Until a few years ago, switching from iOS to Android meant losing your WhatsApp message history, since the iCloud backup is not supported with Google Drive. However, WhatsApp introduced a native feature to securely transfer chats from one operating system to another, protecting your conversations, media files, and account information.
This process is quick and easy, although requires meeting certain requirements and perform the transfer during the initial setup of your new Android device. However, some models currently support the process via cable, while others can do so using specific apps.
Requirements to transfer WhatsApp from iPhone to Android
- Both devices (iPhone and Android) must have the latest version of WhatsApp installed.
- The Android mobile must be factory restored or new (i.e. the transfer is only done during initial setup).
- Keep the same phone number on both devices so that WhatsApp recognizes your account.
- For many models, a USB-C to Lightning cable to connect iPhone and Android. On newer iPhone models, USB-C to USB-C is also supported.
- On Samsung mobiles, you must have installed the Samsung Smart Switch app in version equal to or greater than 3.7.22.1.
- Have a stable WiFi connection and keep both devices connected. enough battery (at least 70%).
- On Google Pixel devices or other Android devices running pure software, Android 12 or higher is typically required for this native functionality.
What information is transferred when moving WhatsApp from iPhone to Android?
- Complete individual and group conversations (including text messages, photos, videos, audios and attachments).
- WhatsApp profile picture and associated username.
- Basic settings and adjustments of the application.
- Multimedia files linked to chats, such as images, videos, and documents.
However, The process does not transfer call or video call history.. It also doesn't export the display name or messages received on the new device after initiating the transfer.
Steps to transfer WhatsApp from iPhone to Android: official method
- Prepare both devices: Charge your phones, maintain Wi-Fi, and insert the SIM card with the same number into your Android device. Install the latest version of WhatsApp on your iPhone and Android.
- Connect your iPhone and Android using a USB-C to Lightning cable (or USB-C to USB-C if both support it).
- Turn on your Android phone and follow the initial setup. The system will detect that it's connected to an iPhone and ask if you want to transfer data from an iPhone.
- Choose the option to transfer data from iPhone. Select WhatsApp on the data transfer selection screen.
- On iPhone, open WhatsApp and go to Settings > Chats > Move chats to AndroidIf a warning message appears, tap Start.
- Wait for the process to complete and, when prompted, install WhatsApp on Android.
- Verify your phone number on WhatsApp for Android and follow the steps to import chats from the migrated copy.
If your Android shows a unit’s QR code, scan it from the iPhone camera to launch the WhatsApp transfer tool.
Alternative Method: Transfer via Samsung Smart Switch
- Turn on your Samsung phone and begin the initial setup up to the data transfer step.
- Select option transfer from iPhone.
- Open WhatsApp on your iPhone and go to Settings > Chats > Transfer chats to Android or scan the QR code displayed on the Samsung screen.
- Please wait while the data is being transferred; do not use either phone during this process.
- Once you're done, install WhatsApp on your Samsung, verify your number, and check that your chats appear.
Other ways to transfer WhatsApp from iPhone to Android
In addition to the official methods, there are alternative options for specific needs or for older models:
- Transfer by email: You can export individual chats as text files (without attachments or the full history) by accessing the conversation on your iPhone, tapping "Export Chat," and emailing it. Attachments can be included by selecting the appropriate option, but they won't be automatically integrated into WhatsApp on Android—they're only used as a reference log.
- Third Party Applications: Tools like iMyFone iTransor for WhatsApp or WazzapMigrator allow for more complete transfers, even with different phone numbers, but they are usually paid and may require a computer and technical knowledge.
In all cases, The use of applications outside the official stores is not recommended., as they could violate your privacy or cause data loss.
Troubleshooting common problems during transfer
- No chats appear after migration: Make sure you've used the same phone number and complete verification on WhatsApp Android. If not, uninstall WhatsApp and repeat the process by importing the correct copy.
- No media transfer: Sometimes, images and videos may take several hours to fully appear after migration, especially if your backup includes many gigabytes. If they don't appear after 24 hours, please contact WhatsApp support.
- Number changes: It's best to change your number from your iPhone, verifying the new number before starting the transfer, as WhatsApp doesn't automatically migrate data between different numbers.
- The process is interrupted: Check that both devices have battery life and a stable connection, and don't use any of the apps until it's finished.
- The new device already has chats: Restoring chats overwrites existing chat history on your Android phone. It's not possible to merge chat history from both phones.
Frequently asked questions about migrating WhatsApp from iOS to Android
- Can I transfer WhatsApp if the Android is already set up? No. Currently, full migration is only possible during initial setup or after a factory reset of your Android.
- Are new messages received lost during migration? Yes. Messages received on your Android once the process has started will not be included in the copy brought from your iPhone.
- Do the stickers, audios, and files work after the process? Yes. All information, except for call and video call history, is transferred successfully.
- Is the process safe? Using the official method is completely safe. Third-party tools should be carefully selected to avoid fraud.
Additional tips for transferring data between iPhone and Android
- Before transferring WhatsApp, back up to iCloud from the iPhone, in case any problem arises.
- Clean up old messages or files to speed up the process and avoid errors.
- Make sure you have enough space in your Android storage for the complete copy of chats and multimedia files.
- If you also need to transfer contacts, photos, external videos, or game progress, consider supplementing the migration with tools specific to each file type. For example, Google Photos allows you to import images from iCloud, or apps like Smart Switch help you transfer contacts, SMS messages, and other personal data.
- In special cases, such as changing your number or transferring only a partial amount of information, consult the official WhatsApp help center or use proven third-party tools.
Switching from iPhone to Android while keeping all your WhatsApp chats is entirely possible. Thanks to the official and alternative solutions available. By following the detailed steps, you'll be able to preserve your conversations, files, and memories without losing relevant information. If you have additional questions or problems during the process, consult the WhatsApp help center or your Android manufacturer's support forums to resolve them in a personalized way.