If you have been using WhatsApp, then you must have looked for ways to save all the important data shared over the world's largest cross-platform messaging app before deleting them. Now, there is an option where you can back up all your files, images, videos, voice notes and even chat logs to your Google Drive account.
Google officially confirmed the Drive integration with WhatsApp on Wednesday, after several leaks and rumours about the anticipated feature dating back to March. It's a relief that the feature is finally 'official'. Now one no longer needs to sideload APKs through a third-party site.
"Of course: you don't want your memories stuck on your phone. (What if something happens?!) So starting today, WhatsApp for Android lets you create a private backup of your chat history, voice messages, photos, and videos in Google Drive. And once you do, you can restore everything on a new device with just a couple taps," Google said its official Drive Blog on Wednesday.
How to setup Google Drive backup on WhatsApp?
Firstly, you need to have an active Google account to connect with WhatsApp. Update your Android app to the latest version, which includes the Google Drive feature. Once updated, you will get a prompt to configure settings by choosing backup frequency, Google account and choice to include videos in the backup.
If you choose to back up your WhatsApp data manually, there is a Backup button under Chat Backup option. Doing a backup for the first time will take time depending on the speed of your internet and the size of the backup. It is recommended that you use a stable Wi-Fi connection to perform the backup.
Once all your data is backed up, restoring is not much trouble. When you change your handset, the WhatsApp setup screens will take you through the restore option. All your messages will get restored before time-consuming videos, photos and voice notes are being downloaded from the Drive.
The Google Drive feature on WhatsApp is rolling out in phases, which may take days. But if you wish to get the updated version of the WhatsApp right now, head over to the APK Mirror site and sideload the APK version 2.12.303.
