Sometimes you may want to save an important WhatsApp conversation outside the app. Maybe it is a work discussion, legal reference, personal memory, or backup. WhatsApp provides an official feature that lets you export chats with or without media files like photos and videos.
This guide explains how to export WhatsApp chat on both Android and iPhone in a simple way.
Also read: How to Lock WhatsApp With Face ID or Fingerprint on iPhone and Android
What Does Export WhatsApp Chat Mean
Exporting a WhatsApp chat means saving the entire conversation as a file that can be shared or stored outside WhatsApp. The exported file usually includes:
- Text messages
- Timestamps
- Sender names
- Media files if selected
Chats are exported in a text file format, and media files are attached separately if you choose to include them.
How to Export WhatsApp Chat on Android
Follow these steps:
- Open WhatsApp
- Open the chat you want to export
- Tap the three dot menu
- Tap More
- Select Export chat
- Choose Include media or Without media
- Select where to share or save the file
You can export the chat through email, Google Drive, or other sharing apps.
Also read: How to Clear WhatsApp Cache on iPhone and Android
How to Export WhatsApp Chat on iPhone
The process is slightly different on iPhone:
- Open WhatsApp
- Open the chat you want to export
- Tap the contact name at the top
- Scroll down and tap Export Chat
- Choose Attach Media or Without Media
- Select the sharing option
You can send it to email, save to Files, or upload to cloud storage.
Difference Between With Media and Without Media
When you select Without Media:
- Only text messages are exported
- The file size is smaller
- Faster to share
When you select Include Media:
- Photos, videos, voice notes are added
- File size becomes larger
- Takes more time to export
WhatsApp may limit export size depending on media volume.
Also read: How to Backup and Restore WhatsApp Chats Properly
Export WhatsApp Group Chat
You can export group chats the same way as personal chats. The exported file will include:
- All participant messages
- Timestamps
- Media if selected
This is useful for saving meeting discussions or important group decisions.
Where Are Exported WhatsApp Chats Saved
Exported chats are not automatically saved inside WhatsApp. You must choose a location such as:
- Google Drive
- iCloud
- Phone storage
Always make sure to save the file securely if it contains sensitive information.
Also read: How to Lock Individual and Group Chats in WhatsApp on iPhone
Important Things to Know
- Exporting chat does not delete it
- Exporting is different from backing up
- You cannot directly reimport exported chat into WhatsApp
- Exported chat is mainly for reference or record keeping
When Should You Export a WhatsApp Chat
People usually export chats for:
- Legal documentation
- Work records
- Personal memories
- Sharing conversation proof
- Saving important discussions
It is a simple way to keep a copy outside the app.
Also read: How to Delete WhatsApp Call History on Android and iOS Devices
Final Thoughts
Exporting WhatsApp chat with or without media is an official and easy feature available on both Android and iPhone. Whether you want a small text file or the full conversation with photos and videos, WhatsApp gives you complete control. Just choose the chat, select export, and decide whether to include media or not.
If you need to keep an important conversation safe, exporting it is a smart option.