There are times when you may want to keep a copy of a WhatsApp chat outside the app. It could be for work records, legal reasons, personal memories, or simply for backup. WhatsApp allows you to export chats officially, and you can choose whether to include photos, videos, and other media files.
In this guide, you will learn how to export a WhatsApp conversation on both Android and iPhone, and what happens after you export it.
Also read: How to Protect WhatsApp Using Face ID or Fingerprint Authentication
What Happens When You Export a WhatsApp Chat
When you export a chat, WhatsApp creates a text file containing:
- All messages
- Date and time stamps
- Names of participants
If you choose to include media, WhatsApp also attaches images, videos, and voice notes separately.
Exporting does not remove the chat from WhatsApp. It simply creates a copy.
How to Export WhatsApp Chat on Android
Follow these simple steps:
- Open WhatsApp
- Open the conversation you want to export
- Tap the three dots in the top corner
- Select More
- Tap Export chat
- Choose Include media or Without media
- Pick where you want to send or save the file
You can share the exported chat through email, cloud storage, or file manager apps.
Also read: How to Hide Your WhatsApp Online Status From Specific Contacts
How to Export WhatsApp Chat on iPhone
On iPhone, the steps are slightly different:
- Open WhatsApp
- Open the chat
- Tap the contact or group name at the top
- Scroll down and select Export Chat
- Choose Attach Media or Without Media
- Select the sharing option
You can save it to Files, send via Mail, or upload to iCloud.
With Media vs Without Media
Choosing Without Media:
- Smaller file size
- Faster export
- Only text messages included
Choosing With Media:
- Includes photos, videos, and audio
- Larger file size
- May take longer to export
If the chat contains many large videos, WhatsApp may limit how much media can be exported at once.
Also read: How to Create WhatsApp Contact Shortcuts on iPhone Using Official Methods
Can You Export Group Chats
Yes. The process is the same for group chats. The exported file will show each participant’s name next to their messages.
This is useful for meeting records or important discussions.
Where Is the Exported File Stored
The exported file is not automatically stored in WhatsApp. You must choose a destination such as:
- Google Drive
- iCloud
- Phone storage
Make sure to save the file securely, especially if it contains sensitive information.
Also read: How to Lock WhatsApp Chats on iPhone for Better Privacy
Is Exporting the Same as Backup
No. Exporting and backing up are different.
- Backup saves chats inside cloud storage for restoration.
- Export creates a readable text file for reference or sharing.
You cannot directly import an exported text file back into WhatsApp.
When Should You Export a Chat
Exporting a chat is helpful if you:
- Need documentation for work
- Want to keep important conversations
- Need conversation proof
- Are changing devices and want a manual copy
It gives you an extra layer of record keeping.
Also read: How to Clear WhatsApp Call History Step by Step on Android and iPhone
Final Thoughts
Exporting WhatsApp chats with or without media is a built-in feature that works smoothly on Android and iPhone. Whether you want a simple text copy or the full conversation with photos and videos, WhatsApp gives you full control.
If you ever need a permanent record of an important conversation, exporting it is one of the easiest and safest methods available.