Switching from an Android to an iPhone can be exciting, but transferring your WhatsApp data doesn’t have to be complicated. To restore a WhatsApp backup from Google Drive to an iPhone, use a third-party app like WhatsMover. This process lets you keep your chats, photos, and videos intact across devices.
Make sure you have a Google Drive backup of your WhatsApp data from your Android phone. Install and open WhatsMover on your computer to start the transfer. Follow the app’s instructions to restore your WhatsApp data to your iPhone quickly.
Getting your WhatsApp data moved over should be smooth with the right tools. Now you can enjoy your iPhone without worrying about losing important WhatsApp messages.
How to Restore WhatsApp Backup from Google Drive to iPhone (Complete Guide)
Restoring a WhatsApp backup from Google Drive to an iPhone isn’t as straightforward as restoring between two Android devices. That’s because WhatsApp backups are platform‑specific—Android uses Google Drive, while iPhone uses iCloud.
However, you can move your WhatsApp data from Android (Google Drive backup) to iPhone using official methods or third‑party tools. This guide explains what’s possible, what’s not, and how to do it safely.
Important Things to Know First
- ❌ You cannot directly restore a Google Drive WhatsApp backup on an iPhone
- ✅ You can transfer WhatsApp data from Android to iPhone using supported transfer methods
- 🔐 End‑to‑end encryption prevents manual backup conversion
Your Google Drive backup must be restored to an Android device first, then transferred to the iPhone.
Method 1: Official WhatsApp “Move to iOS” Method (Recommended)
This is the safest and free method supported by WhatsApp and Apple.
Requirements
- Android phone with WhatsApp installed
- iPhone running iOS 15.5 or later
- Same phone number on both devices
- iPhone must be factory reset or new
- Stable Wi‑Fi connection
- Move to iOS app installed on Android
Step‑by‑Step Instructions
Step 1: Restore WhatsApp on Android
- Install WhatsApp on your Android phone
- Sign in with your phone number
- Restore chats from Google Drive when prompted
Step 2: Prepare Your iPhone
- Turn on your iPhone
- Begin setup until you reach Apps & Data
- Select Move Data from Android
Step 3: Transfer WhatsApp Data
- Open Move to iOS on Android
- Enter the code shown on your iPhone
- Select WhatsApp from the list of apps
- Start the transfer and wait for completion
Step 4: Set Up WhatsApp on iPhone
- Finish iPhone setup
- Install WhatsApp from the App Store
- Log in using the same phone number
- Tap Start when prompted to import chats
✅ Your chats, photos, videos, and voice messages will appear on your iPhone.
Method 2: Using Third‑Party Transfer Tools
If your iPhone is already set up or you can’t use Move to iOS, third‑party tools may help.
Popular Tools (Examples)
- Dr.Fone – WhatsApp Transfer
- iCareFone for WhatsApp Transfer
- MobileTrans
⚠️ These tools are not developed by WhatsApp or Apple. Use only reputable software and review privacy policies carefully.
General Steps (May Vary by Tool)
- Install the software on your computer
- Connect Android and iPhone via USB
- Restore WhatsApp from Google Drive to Android
- Use the tool to transfer chats to iPhone
- Verify WhatsApp on the iPhone
✅ Often supports transfers without resetting the iPhone.
What Data Can Be Transferred?
✅ Text messages
✅ Photos and videos
✅ Voice messages
✅ Documents
✅ Group chats
❌ WhatsApp call history
❌ Display names for some contacts
❌ Payment history
Common Problems & Solutions
WhatsApp Not Showing Transfer Option
- Ensure Android WhatsApp version is updated
- Confirm iOS version is 15.5 or newer
Transfer Stuck or Fails
- Keep both phones plugged in
- Disable battery optimization on Android
- Avoid switching apps during transfer
Backup Not Detected
- Make sure Google Drive backup uses the same Google account
- Confirm backup exists in Google Drive > Backups
FAQs
Can I restore Google Drive backup directly to iPhone?
No. Google Drive backups are incompatible with iOS.
Do I need to reset my iPhone?
Yes, for the official Move to iOS method.
Is WhatsApp data encrypted during transfer?
Yes. WhatsApp uses end‑to‑end encryption during migration.
Final Thoughts
While you can’t directly restore a WhatsApp Google Drive backup to an iPhone, WhatsApp’s Move to iOS feature makes the transition smooth and secure. If that’s not an option, trusted third‑party tools provide flexibility—though with added risk.
For best results, always use the official method first.
Key Takeaways
- Use WhatsMover to transfer WhatsApp backup from Google Drive to iPhone.
- Ensure you have a Google Drive backup from your Android phone.
- Follow the app’s instructions for a smooth transfer.
Preparing for WhatsApp Backup Restoration
Restoring a WhatsApp backup from Google Drive to an iPhone involves several steps. You must check compatibility, back up WhatsApp on your Android device, and set up your iPhone.
Verifying Compatibility and Requirements
First, check if your Android and iPhone both have the latest updates. You need a stable internet connection for both devices. Make sure your Google account has the backup and you remember the login details. Also, your iPhone needs enough storage to accommodate the backup data, which includes messages, chat history, and media files.
Besides, the iPhone must run iOS 10 or higher. Having the latest WhatsApp version installed on both devices is crucial too. This is important if you want a smooth transfer and avoid data loss.
Backing Up WhatsApp on Android
Open WhatsApp on your Android. Tap the three dots in the top-right corner and then tap Settings. Next, go to Chats and then Chat backup. Ensure you select Back up to Google Drive and link your Google account if asked.
You can choose how often to back up. For restoration purposes, tap Back Up to create an immediate backup. Make sure your network connection is stable to avoid incomplete backups. Confirm that the backup is saved on Google Drive by logging into your Google account on a computer or another device.
Setting Up the iPhone for Restoration
Install WhatsApp from the App Store on your iPhone. Open the app and verify your phone number, the same number used on your Android. WhatsApp will prompt you to restore chat history. Tap Restore and wait for the process to finish.
Your iPhone must remain connected to a stable Wi-Fi network during the restoration. Ensure you are logged into the correct Google account to access the backup. After restoration, set up your profile and customize settings as needed. The chat history and media from your Android should now be visible on your iPhone.
