WhatsApp is one of the most widely used applications in Portugal and, in 2026, continues to be where most personal and professional conversations happen. Not losing those conversations — especially when switching iPhone, performing a reset, or updating iOS — depends on one thing: having a recent backup. This step-by-step guide explains how to save your WhatsApp history on iPhone in 2026, with current options (iCloud and Finder on Mac), and how to restore everything on your new device.
In this article
- Step 1: Make automatic backup to iCloud
- Step 2: Local backup via Finder (macOS) or Windows
- Step 3: Restore conversations on your new iPhone
- Step 4: Transfer conversations directly between iPhones
- When does it make more sense to get a new iPhone?
- Extra tips
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Are WhatsApp messages encrypted on iCloud?
- Can I restore iPhone conversations on Android?
- How much space does a WhatsApp backup take up?
- Can I access the WhatsApp backup directly?
Step 1: Make automatic backup to iCloud
The simplest and most reliable method in 2026. WhatsApp backups are stored on iCloud, end-to-end encrypted (if the option is enabled) and can include videos, images, and messages.
- Open WhatsApp on your iPhone
- Go to Settings (bottom right corner)
- Tap Chats > Chat Backup
- Tap Auto Backup and choose the frequency (daily recommended)
- Enable Include Videos if you want to preserve everything
- Enable End-to-End Encrypted Backup and set a password (keep it somewhere safe — without it you won't be able to restore)
- To make an immediate backup, tap Back Up Now
Confirm you have enough space on iCloud (check Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud > Manage Storage). The free plan has 5 GB; iCloud+ starts at €0.99/month for 50 GB.
Step 2: Local backup via Finder (macOS) or Windows
In 2026, iTunes no longer exists on Mac (it was replaced by Finder in macOS Catalina and later). On Windows PC, you still use iTunes for Windows or the "Apple Devices" app from the Microsoft Store.
- Connect your iPhone to your Mac with a USB-C or Lightning cable
- Open Finder and select your iPhone in the sidebar
- In General, choose Back up all data on your iPhone to this Mac
- Enable Encrypt backup and set a password (essential to include passwords and health data)
- Click Back Up Now
This backup includes WhatsApp and all other apps, making it useful for switching iPhones or for a complete restore.
Step 3: Restore conversations on your new iPhone
When you receive your new iPhone — including a refurbished iPhone from iOutlet, which comes factory reset and ready to set up — the process is straightforward:
- Set up your new iPhone with the same Apple ID you had on the old one
- Install WhatsApp from the App Store
- Open WhatsApp and enter your phone number
- When the Restore Chat History option appears, tap to begin
- If you have an encrypted backup, enter your password
- Wait for the process (it can take minutes to hours depending on the backup size)
Step 4: Transfer conversations directly between iPhones
In 2026, WhatsApp allows you to migrate conversations directly between two iPhones (or from Android to iPhone) without relying on iCloud backup. Useful when:
- You don't have enough space on iCloud
- You want to include very recent messages not covered by the last backup
- You want to simplify the process
The process: both iPhones close together, connected to Wi-Fi and power. On the new one, after initial setup and adding your number, choose Transfer from Old iPhone. Confirm on the old one, and you're done.
When does it make more sense to get a new iPhone?
If your iPhone is getting slower, has poor battery life, or no longer receives iOS updates, consider replacing it. In 2026, a refurbished iPhone from iOutlet offers savings of 30-60% compared to a new one, with battery tested with specialised technical software and 24 months of direct warranty. Delivery is free in up to 8 working days in Portugal and you have 14 days to return with no questions asked.
Extra tips
- Back up before any major change (iOS update, iPhone switch, reset)
- Encrypted backup is more secure — store the password in a password manager
- Keep iOS updated — updates fix bugs and improve backup reliability
- Check backups regularly in WhatsApp Settings > Chats > Chat Backup
- Enable Two-Step Verification on WhatsApp in Settings > Account > Two-Step Verification
Frequently Asked Questions
Are WhatsApp messages encrypted on iCloud?
Not by default. To end-to-end encrypt the iCloud backup, enable the option in WhatsApp Settings > Chats > Chat Backup > End-to-End Encrypted Backup.
Can I restore iPhone conversations on Android?
Yes. In 2026, WhatsApp supports iOS → Android migration and vice versa, but requires a cable and a guided process during the initial setup of the new phone.
How much space does a WhatsApp backup take up?
It depends. For typical use (messages + a few photos): 1-3 GB. For heavy use with lots of videos: 10-50 GB. iCloud+ from €0.99/month solves this.
Can I access the WhatsApp backup directly?
No. The WhatsApp backup is encrypted and proprietary. It can only be restored within the WhatsApp app on an iPhone with the same number.
Thinking of switching iPhones? See all refurbished iPhones available at iOutlet — with 24 months warranty, free delivery in up to 8 working days and 14 days to return with no questions asked. Or also explore refurbished Macs, ideal for backing up via Finder.
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