How to restore a hidden chat in WhatsApp - briefly?
If you've accidentally archived a chat on WhatsApp and want to restore it, simply locate the chat in your Archived Chats section and long-press on it. Then, tap on the Unarchive Chat option to move it back to your main chats list.
How to restore a hidden chat in WhatsApp - in detail?
Restoring a hidden chat in WhatsApp involves several steps, depending on the method used to hide the chat initially. Whether you archived the chat or used the "Disappearing Messages" feature, this guide will walk you through the process of restoring access to your hidden chats.
Archiving Chats
If you have archived a chat in WhatsApp, it can be easily restored by following these steps:
- Open WhatsApp: Launch the WhatsApp application on your mobile device.
- Navigate to the Archived Chats Section: On the "Chats" screen, scroll down to the bottom where you will find an option labeled "Archived Chats." Tap on it.
- Unarchive the Chat: In the archived chats section, locate the chat you wish to restore. Swipe left on the chat or tap and hold on it until a menu appears with options such as "Delete" and "Unarchive." Select "Unarchive."
- Return to Main Chats Screen: The chat will now be unarchived and should appear back in your main chats list.
Disappearing Messages
If you have enabled the "Disappearing Messages" feature, the messages will automatically delete after a set period. However, if you wish to disable this feature for a specific chat:
- Open WhatsApp: Launch the WhatsApp application on your mobile device.
- Select the Chat: Open the chat where the disappearing messages feature is enabled.
- Access Chat Settings: Tap on the three dots (⋮) in the top-right corner of the screen to open the chat menu. Select "View contact" or "Group info."
- Disable Disappearing Messages: Scroll down and tap on "Disappearing messages." You will see an option to turn off this feature. Tap on it to confirm.
Backup and Restore
In some cases, you might need to restore a chat from a backup if the chat has been deleted or is no longer visible:
- Uninstall and Reinstall WhatsApp: Uninstall WhatsApp from your device. Then, reinstall it from the App Store or Google Play Store.
- Set Up WhatsApp: Open WhatsApp and follow the setup instructions. When prompted to restore chats from a backup, select the most recent backup available.
- Restore Chats: After restoration is complete, your hidden or deleted chats should be accessible once again in the main chats list.
Important Notes
- Backup Regularly: It's crucial to regularly back up your WhatsApp data to prevent loss of important messages and conversations.
- Check Settings: Ensure that the "Disappearing Messages" feature is enabled only for chats where it is necessary, as this can result in permanent deletion of messages.
By following these detailed steps, you should be able to successfully restore any hidden or archived chat in WhatsApp and regain access to your important conversations.