Transfer WhatsApp to a New Phone (iOS ↔ Android)

Before you start (applies to any switch)

• Update WhatsApp on both phones; keep the same phone number and SIM/eSIM ready.
• Turn off VPNs; connect to the same Wi-Fi if using device-to-device transfer.
• Back up chats first: iPhone → iCloud; Android → Google Drive (Settings → Chats → Chat backup).
• Disable two-step verification temporarily if you’ve forgotten the PIN; re-enable later.

Fastest: device-to-device via QR (same OS or cross-platform)

1. On the new phone, install WhatsApp → verify your number → choose Transfer from old device.
2. On the old phone, open WhatsApp → Settings → Chats → Transfer chats (or follow the prompt).
3. Scan the QR code with the old phone; keep screens on and devices close until complete.

This preserves media and most settings. Large histories can take a while—keep both plugged in.

iPhone → iPhone (iCloud backup restore)

1. Old iPhone: Settings → [name] → iCloud → iCloud Drive on. WhatsApp → Chats → Chat Backup → Back Up Now.
2. New iPhone: install WhatsApp → verify number → restore from iCloud when prompted.

Android → Android (Google Drive backup restore)

1. Old Android: WhatsApp → Chats → Chat backup → Back Up to Google Drive (include videos if you want).
2. New Android: sign into the same Google account → install WhatsApp → verify number → restore.

iPhone ↔ Android (cross-platform)

Troubleshooting & notes

• Can’t verify number: wait for SMS; use “Call me.” Ensure the SIM/eSIM is active.
• Media missing: some flows transfer chats first; media downloads afterward over Wi-Fi.
• Two phones, one account: WhatsApp supports linked devices, but the main phone holds chat history.
• Business accounts: migrate the same way; verify business info after transfer.

You can’t merge two different phone numbers’ histories into one account.