How long is WhatsApp backup stored - briefly?
WhatsApp backups are stored for a maximum of 7 days before they expire and cannot be restored. To ensure your data is not lost, it's recommended to regularly backup your chats to Google Drive or iCloud, depending on your device platform.
How long is WhatsApp backup stored - in detail?
How long is WhatsApp backup stored?
The duration for which a WhatsApp backup is stored depends on the type of backup you are referring to: local or cloud-based. Let's delve into the details of each.
For local backups, WhatsApp allows users to create manual backups that are stored locally on your device or external storage such as an SD card. The retention period for these backups is indefinite, meaning they will remain on your storage until you manually delete them. However, it's important to note that local backups do not include media files unless explicitly specified during the backup process.
On the other hand, cloud-based backups are stored using services like Google Drive or iCloud, depending on whether you are an Android or iOS user, respectively. WhatsApp does not have control over the retention policies of these third-party storage services. Therefore, the duration for which your backup is retained in the cloud is governed by the policies of the respective service provider.
For Google Drive, backups are typically stored until you decide to delete them manually or if the storage quota is exceeded, at which point older backups may be automatically deleted to make room for new ones. Similarly, iCloud also retains backups indefinitely unless you choose to delete them or run out of storage space, in which case Apple's system might prioritize and remove older backups to free up space.
In summary, the longevity of your WhatsApp backup largely depends on whether it is stored locally or in the cloud, and the policies of the respective storage service providers. It's always a good practice to periodically review and manage your backups to ensure you have the most recent data available when needed.