How to restore old WhatsApp using a phone number?

How to restore old WhatsApp using a phone number - briefly?

To restore an old WhatsApp account using a phone number, first ensure that the new phone has the same number as the one associated with your previous WhatsApp account. Then, during the setup process on the new device, use the "Restore" option when prompted to migrate your chat history and settings from the old device.

How to restore old WhatsApp using a phone number - in detail?

Restoring old WhatsApp messages using a phone number is a straightforward process, provided that the user has previously backed up their data. Here's a detailed guide on how to achieve this:

Firstly, it’s crucial to understand that WhatsApp backups are stored in cloud services such as Google Drive or iCloud, depending on whether you use an Android or iOS device. These backups include messages, photos, videos, and other media shared through the app. To restore from a backup, follow these steps:

  1. Uninstall and Reinstall WhatsApp: Begin by uninstalling the WhatsApp application from your device. Next, visit your device’s app store (Google Play Store for Android or Apple App Store for iOS) and download the latest version of WhatsApp. Install it on your device.
  2. Verify Your Phone Number: Once installed, open WhatsApp and follow the prompts to set up your account. You will be asked to enter your phone number. Make sure to use the same phone number that was associated with your old WhatsApp account. This is essential for linking the new installation to your previous backups.
  3. Access the Backup: After entering your phone number, WhatsApp will automatically search for any available backups in Google Drive or iCloud. If a backup is found, you will receive a notification. Tap on "Restore" when prompted. This process may take some time, depending on the size of your backup and the speed of your internet connection.
  4. Complete the Setup: Once the restoration process is complete, WhatsApp will restart. You can now access all your old messages, photos, videos, and other media that were included in the backup. Note that restoring from a backup does not include any new messages or media sent or received after the backup was created.
  5. Review Your Messages: Take some time to review your restored messages. You may find it helpful to check important conversations or media files to ensure everything has been successfully recovered.

It’s important to note that WhatsApp backups are typically automated and occur daily at 2 AM local time. However, you can also manually create a backup by going to the settings menu in WhatsApp (tap on the three dots or your profile picture), selecting "Chats," and then tapping on "Backup."

By following these steps, you should be able to successfully restore your old WhatsApp messages using your phone number. If you encounter any issues during the process, ensure that your phone is connected to a stable internet connection and that you have sufficient storage space on your device for the backup files.