How to Backup WhatsApp Chats and Media on Android to Google Drive

Purpose

Backing up your WhatsApp chat history and media files to Google Drive ensures you can restore them on a new phone if your Android device is ever lost or replaced.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Access WhatsApp Settings

   • Open WhatsApp.
   • Tap the three dots at the top-right corner.
   • Select "Settings."

2. Locate Backup Settings

   • Tap "Chats."
   • Scroll down to "Chats backup."

3. Set up Google Account for Backup

   • Ensure your Google account is visible under "Google Account."
   • If not, tap "Google Account" and choose "Add account."
   • Sign in with your existing Google account, or create a new one by following the instructions.

4. Choose Backup Frequency

   • Return to the "Chats backup" page and tap "Frequency."
   • Select between "Manual" or "Automatic" backup.
   • For automatic, options include daily, weekly, or monthly. (Example: select weekly)

5. Include Videos in Backup

   • Toggle "Include videos" if you want them in your backup. Be cautious as it may result in larger and longer backups.

6. Manage Data Charges and Connection

   • For metered connections, consider turning off "Back up using cellular" to save data charges.
   • Backups on cellular connections will proceed if activated.

7. Enable End-to-End Encryption

   • Tap "End-to-end encrypted backup."
   • Activate encryption and create a password.
   • Confirm the password and start the backup by tapping "Create."

Monitoring Backup

• Upload duration varies by data size and Internet speed.
• Can be paused with the cross icon next to the progress bar.
• Backup status is available in your web version of Google Drive.

Checking Backup on Google Drive

1. Access Google Drive

   • Open your web browser.
   • Navigate to google.com.
   • Click the Google Apps icon and select "Drive."

2. Locate WhatsApp Backup

   • Sign in if necessary.
   • Click the gear icon in Google Drive and select "Settings."
   • Choose "Manage Apps."
   • Find "WhatsApp Messenger" and see encrypted chat history and media.

3. Manage Backup File

   • Click "Options" for actions on the backup file.

Conclusion

Backing up your WhatsApp data on Google Drive is a straightforward process, ensuring you have access to your chat history and media on a new phone.