Switching phones is when most people lose WhatsApp history. Official migration tools exist—use them before you factory‑reset the old handset.
Android to Android
Install WhatsApp on the new phone, start verification, then choose to restore from Google backup—or use device transfer if both phones support the cable/QR move WhatsApp shows during setup.
Cross‑platform moves
Android ↔ iPhone migrations use WhatsApp’s Move Chat history feature with the old phone nearby. Follow the in‑app instructions; clearing the old app too early aborts the move.
If something fails
Keep the old phone online until the new one shows chats. Then only unregister or reset the old device.
FAQ
Same number required?
Yes for normal restores. Number changes are a different, limited flow.
SD card backups?
Legacy local backups help on some Androids; cloud backup is more reliable now.
Multi-device?
Link companion devices after the primary phone is restored.
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Photo: Unsplash. Steps checked against current Windows 11 / Android settings menus; UI labels can shift slightly after OS updates.