Apple Help

How to Transfer WhatsApp Data from Android to iPhone (3 Easy Methods)

Switching to iPhone? Learn 3 simple ways to transfer your WhatsApp chats, photos, and videos from Android to iOS safely without losing your memories.

How to Transfer WhatsApp Data from Android to iPhone (3 Easy Methods)
Founder & Editor – TechFixSteps
Founder & Editor – TechFixSteps
• April 12, 2026

Table of Contents

7 Steps

Switching from Android to iPhone but worried about losing your WhatsApp chats, photos, and videos? Don’t worry—you can safely transfer your WhatsApp data using a few proven methods.

In this guide, you’ll learn 3 working methods to transfer WhatsApp data from Android to iPhone—step by step.

1. Things to Know Before You Start

Before initiating any transfer, ensure the following requirements are met to avoid errors:

  • Use the same phone number on both devices.
  • Keep both devices charged (at least 70% recommended).
  • Use a stable Wi-Fi network (ideally the same one for both).
  • Update WhatsApp to the latest version on both phones.

Method 1: Use Companion Device (Fastest Way)

This method allows you to use your WhatsApp on your iPhone while keeping your Android as the primary device for a while. It's the fastest way to see your chats on a new phone.

Steps for iPhone:

  1. Install WhatsApp on your new iPhone.
  2. Open it and tap Agree & Continue.
  3. Instead of entering your phone number, tap the three dots (top right icon).
  4. Select Link as Companion Device.
  5. A QR code will appear on your iPhone screen.

On your Android:

  1. Open WhatsApp on your Android phone.
  2. Tap the three dots → Linked Devices.
  3. Tap Link a Device.
  4. Scan the QR code shown on your iPhone.

👉 Result: Your chats will sync instantly to the iPhone.

Warning:Essential Requirement

For the 'Move to iOS' method, your iPhone must be on the factory reset setup screen. If you have already set it up, you will need to erase it.

Method 2: Use Move to iOS (Official Method)

This is the official way provided by Apple and WhatsApp to move your entire history including media.

Note:Note on Third-Party Apps

Most free third-party apps like 'Copy My Data' only transfer media and contacts, NOT your actual WhatsApp message history.

Step 1: Reset iPhone

Go to Settings → General → Transfer or Reset iPhone. Tap Erase All Content and Settings. (Skip this if your iPhone is already brand new and not yet set up).

Step 2: Start Setup

Start the iPhone setup process. When you reach the "Apps & Data" screen, choose the Move Data from Android option.

Step 3: On Android Device

  1. Install the Move to iOS app from the Play Store.
  2. Open it and tap Continue.
  3. Enter the 6-digit or 10-digit code shown on your iPhone.

Step 4: Transfer WhatsApp

  1. Select WhatsApp from the transfer list.
  2. Tap Start Transfer. WhatsApp will prepare the data for export.

Step 5: Complete Setup

  1. Finish the remaining iPhone setup steps.
  2. Install WhatsApp from the App Store.
  3. Verify your same phone number.
  4. Tap Import Chats when prompted.

👉 Result: All your chats and media will be moved permanently to the iPhone.


Method 3: Use Third-Party Apps

Apps like Copy My Data can help if you don't want to reset your iPhone, but they have major limitations.

Steps:

  1. Install the app on both devices.
  2. Connect both to the same Wi-Fi.
  3. Open the app on both and follow the on-screen prompts.
  4. Enter the pairing code.
  5. Select the data categories (Photos, Videos, Contacts).

Tip:Pro Tip

If you want the quickest way to see your messages on your New iPhone without a full transfer, the Companion Mode is your best friend.

Comparison of Methods

Choose the method that best fits your situation using the table below.

MethodChatsMediaReset RequiredDifficulty
Companion Mode✅Partial❌Easy
Move to iOS✅✅✅Medium
Third-party Apps❌✅❌Easy

Common Problems & Fixes

1. QR Code Not Scanning

  • Clean your camera lens.
  • Increase the screen brightness on your iPhone.

2. Transfer Stuck

  • Ensure you have a very strong Wi-Fi signal.
  • Restart both devices and try again.

3. Chats Not Showing

  • Verify you used the exact same phone number.
  • Ensure both apps are on the latest version.

Final Conclusion

Depending on your needs, choose one of these three paths:

  • If you want the best result: Use the Move to iOS (official method).
  • If you want a quick setup without reset: Use the Companion Device feature.
  • If you only need your media files: Use third-party apps.

By following these steps, you can move to your new iPhone without leaving your important WhatsApp memories behind!

Spread the Knowledge

If you found this guide helpful, share it with your network!

Related Articles

More guides and insights you might find helpful.