A new official trial version of WhatsApp It has been published on the developer's website and includes backups by default, so all users who install it can use it without having to go through complicated activation processes. We'll show you how to get it and how to use the new feature. Today, this option is available. natively integrated in the Android app, so you don't need any advanced settings to start using it.
It has been known for a long time that WhatsApp worked on making backup copies in Drive for its version in the Android operating system. And it seems that this functionality has been implemented definitively and without failures, since in the version 2.12.232 This development includes these by default and can therefore be used without any complications. Currently, cloud backup is a standard feature and stable.
Get the new trial version It is not complicated, since by accessing this link it is downloaded to the Android terminal you have - it is not yet in the Play Store -. Once this is done, you have to click on the APK file obtained and follow the corresponding steps (there are no security problems, since the development is signed by WhatsApp itself, so you should not hesitate when activating the Unknown sources). Nowadays you can update from Google Play or join the official beta program without having to manually install APKs.
Once the installation is finished, WhatsApp should be started, it automatically appears an assistant This prompts you to enter your Drive account information to configure the appropriate backup settings. If this isn't your case, which isn't uncommon, we'll explain it below. how to perform the process manually in the popular messaging app.
Steps to configure the copy in Drive
If the aforementioned wizard does not run, don't worry, follow the steps below to set all the parameters so that configure backups in WhatsApp for Android:
- Access the application Settings using the icon with three vertical dots in the upper right
- Now select the menu Chats and calls and, in it, select Backup
- The new interface of backups in Drive for WhatsApp appears
- The first is to establish the Settings of the account at the bottom of the screen, always tapping on each option. First, set the account; then, under Save to Google Drive, select the frequency with which your data will be saved; and finally, indicate whether the process only happens when connected to Wi-Fi or also when using mobile data (we recommend the former).
- Once this is done, click on the button Save for the first WhatsApp backup to begin and just wait for everything to run according to the configuration that has been established
The fact is that with the new version 2.12.232 it is now possible to make backup copies of the data you have on WhatsApp in the online storage service Drive. And, the truth is that the restoration of this when you start to use a new phone is most useful, since no information is lost.
Where are the copies in Google Drive and why don't you see them?
WhatsApp saves its copy in the folder Application Data from Google Drive. This location is not accessible For security and integrity reasons, you cannot open, list, or download that copy from the Drive interface. To verify it exists, go to Drive, go to Settings > Manage apps and locate WhatsApp; there you can unlink the app if you need to, but remember that if you disconnect it, you will stop generating copies and existing ones may be deleted.
When you restore on Android after reinstalling or changing your phone, WhatsApp detects that hidden copy and downloads chats, photos and videos depending on the chosen configuration.
Storage requirements, options, and limits
To use cloud copy you need a Google account active, Google Play Services, stable connection and enough space on mobile and in Drive. Keep in mind that copies take up part of the 15 GB free shared with Gmail and Google Photos (if you use it), and which you can expand with Google One (usual plans of 100GB, 200GB, and 2TB, among others).
Old copies are overwrite by the most recent ones and, if a copy remains inactive for 5 monthsGoogle Drive automatically deletes it. If you add videos, the file size increases significantly; consider disabling this option to save space.
End-to-end encrypted backup
You can activate the end-to-end encryption of copies to add an extra layer of protection. WhatsApp will ask you to create a 64-digit password or keyOnly you can decrypt that copy; neither Google nor WhatsApp can help you if you forget it. This is a recommended measure to preserve your data. sensitive data.
Common problems and solutions
- Slow copies: delete large files, empty unnecessary chats and deactivate Include videos to expedite. Consult the detailed solutions guide if it persists.
- 99% Blockage: Stop the process and restart it; if it persists, free up space and reinstall the app as a last resort.
- Copies that are cancelled: disables the battery optimization for WhatsApp and check Account/Storage permissions.
- “Preparing copy” very slow: In addition to the battery, check the Wi-Fi connection and that the phone is not in power saving mode. For general performance issues, see How to prevent WhatsApp from slowing down Android.
Mobile phone restoration and replacement: best practices
To restore, use the same number and same google account on Android. If you unlinked WhatsApp in Drive, go back to Settings> Chats> Backup and reauthenticate your account. Across platforms, Android uses Google Drive and iPhone iCloud; you can't restore directly from one to the other, although there are transfer methods and the option to export chats by conversation with or without multimedia.
View or rip content on PC: real options
The copy in Drive is invisible and non-downloadableTo have content on your computer, use the native function Export chat or use specialized tools at your own risk (e.g. solutions like iCareFone WhatsApp Transfer, MobileTrans, iMyFone iTransor, extensions for WhatsApp Web, or viewers like WhatsApp Viewer). On Android, the database is encrypted; to read it you need the decryption key from your own device. If you're not technically experienced, the safest option is to export chats or restore them to your phone and save the files there.
Control from Google Workspace (administrators)
Administrators can allow or block copies of third-party apps in Drive. If the service is disabled, users will see error messages; they can disable backups on the device or use a personal account. Remember that these backups only apply to Unmanaged Android advanced and appear in the Drive Backups view when the service is enabled.
Copies in Google Drive offer a way reliable Keep your conversations and files safe. Set the right frequency, control storage, enable encryption if you need maximum privacy, and use exports or restores to take your data where you need it without compromising security.
