How to Export WhatsApp Chats on Android: Complete 2026 Guide

Need to save your WhatsApp conversations from your Android phone? Whether you're backing up memories, preserving evidence, or switching devices, this guide covers everything you need to know about exporting WhatsApp chats on Android in 2026.

Quick Steps: Native Android Export

WhatsApp's built-in export feature works on all Android devices. Here's the fastest way:

1. Open WhatsApp and go to the chat you want to export
2. Tap the three dots (⋮) in the top right corner
3. Select More → Export chat
4. Choose Include media or Without media
5. Select where to save (Google Drive, email, Files, etc.)

Differences by Manufacturer

While the core export process is the same, here are manufacturer-specific notes:

Samsung Galaxy Devices

• Export files save to My Files → Internal Storage → WhatsApp Exports by default
• Samsung's secure folder WhatsApp requires exporting from within the secure folder
• One UI may show additional sharing options like Quick Share

Google Pixel

• Files save to Files → Downloads by default
• Pixel's Material You interface may look slightly different but works identically
• Google Drive integration is seamless for cloud backup

Xiaomi / Redmi / POCO

• MIUI may ask for additional storage permissions
• Files save to File Manager → Internal storage → Download
• Dual apps (second WhatsApp) export separately

OnePlus / OPPO / Realme

• ColorOS/OxygenOS export works identically to stock Android
• Check File Manager → Internal storage → Download for exports

Troubleshooting Storage Permissions

If export fails or you can't find your file:

Grant Storage Permissions

1. Go to Settings → Apps → WhatsApp
2. Tap Permissions
3. Enable Storage or Files and media
4. For Android 13+, grant "All files access" if prompted

Clear WhatsApp Cache

If exports hang or fail:

1. Go to Settings → Apps → WhatsApp → Storage
2. Tap Clear cache (not "Clear data"!)
3. Restart WhatsApp and try again

Free Up Storage

Large exports need space. WhatsApp creates a temporary file during export that can be 2-3x the final size. Ensure you have at least 1GB free for large chats with media.

What You Get: The Export File Explained

When you export a WhatsApp chat, you receive:

Text-Only Export

• A .txt file with all messages
• Format: [Date, Time] Sender: Message
• File size: Usually under 10MB even for years of chat
• Media references shown as "(image omitted)" or "(video omitted)"

Export With Media

• A .zip file containing:
• The .txt chat file
• All photos, videos, voice messages, and documents
• File size: Can be several GB for media-heavy chats

Converting Your Export to Professional PDF

Raw export files are hard to read and not suitable for professional use. Here's how to convert them:

1. Export your chat as described above
2. Transfer the file to your computer (or use your phone's browser)
3. Visit PrintChat.app
4. Upload your export file (.txt or .zip)
5. Choose your format:
   • Bubble Layout: Looks like the WhatsApp interface
   • Legal Transcript: Formal format for court/legal use
6. Download your professional PDF

When You Need More Than a Basic Export

Basic exports work for personal backup, but certain situations require more:

For Legal Evidence

Courts require professional formatting with clear timestamps and sender identification. Learn about court evidence requirements →

For Divorce Proceedings

Family courts often need organized communication records. Read our divorce evidence guide →

For Immigration Applications

USCIS and other agencies accept WhatsApp as relationship proof. See our immigration evidence guide →

For Workplace Documentation

HR departments need professional, chronological records. Read our workplace documentation guide →

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I export chats from WhatsApp Business?

Yes, the process is identical to regular WhatsApp.

Will the other person know I exported our chat?

No, exporting is completely private. WhatsApp doesn't notify anyone.

Can I export group chats?

Yes, group chats export the same way. All participants' messages are included.

What if my chat is too large to email?

Save to Google Drive or your device's file system instead of email. You can then transfer via USB or cloud sharing.

Can I export deleted messages?

No, once messages are deleted, they cannot be exported. Export regularly if you need to preserve conversations.