How to export a WhatsApp chat

Exporting a chat saves a copy of its messages as a file you can keep, back up or share. It takes under a minute and works for one-to-one chats and groups.

On iPhone

  1. Open the chat or group in WhatsApp.
  2. Tap the contact or group name at the top of the screen.
  3. Scroll down and tap Export Chat.
  4. Choose Without Media.
  5. Pick where to send the file: save it to Files, email it or share it on WhatsApp.

On Android

  1. Open the chat or group in WhatsApp.
  2. Tap ⋮ (More options) in the top right corner.
  3. Tap More, then Export chat.
  4. Choose Without media.
  5. Pick where to send the file: save it to Drive, email it or share it on WhatsApp.

What you get

WhatsApp creates a .zip file with a text file of the messages, each with its date, time and sender. Without media it exports up to 40,000 of the latest messages; with media, up to 10,000.

Turn your export into a WhatsApp Wrapped

Share the file with ZapZipped on WhatsApp and get your group's stats, awards and DNA as cards ready to share. It's free, and we don't store your messages.

Frequently asked questions

Does anyone know when I export a chat?

No. Exporting only creates a copy on your phone. Nobody in the chat or group is notified.

Should I include media?

To back up photos and videos, include media. For your WhatsApp Wrapped, choose Without media: the file is much smaller and ZapZipped only reads the text.

Why can't I see Export chat?

Update WhatsApp to the latest version first. If someone turned on Advanced chat privacy for that chat, nobody can export it until it is turned off.

Can I export a group chat?

Yes. The steps are the same for groups and one-to-one chats, and any member can export the group.