Many people want to move their WhatsApp messages to a new phone without relying on Google Drive or iCloud. The good news is that this is now possible. WhatsApp has introduced new options that let you shift chats directly between phones. Even changing from Android to iPhone, or the other way around, is much easier than before.
Below is a clear, simple guide that explains all safe and practical ways to transfer WhatsApp chats without using cloud backups.
Also read: How to Link WhatsApp with Your Facebook Page for Better Business Results
Transfer WhatsApp Chats Without Backup on the Same Phone Type
WhatsApp now includes a built-in chat transfer feature that works through QR code scanning. This option is designed for users who are moving between phones with the same operating system.
✔ Android to Android
✔ iPhone to iPhone
No Google Drive or iCloud is required. The transfer happens directly between the two phones.
How to Use WhatsApp’s QR Code Transfer
On your old phone:
- Open WhatsApp.
- Go to Settings.
- Tap Chats and then Transfer Chats.
- Tap Start and allow the required permissions.
- A QR scanner will appear on the screen.
On your new phone:
- Install WhatsApp from the Play Store or App Store.
- Open it and agree to the terms.
- Verify the same phone number.
- Choose Transfer chats from old phone.
- Scan the QR code shown on the old device.
- Wait until the transfer finishes.
Once completed, all chats will show up on the new phone.
Important Things to Keep in Mind
- Both phones must run the same operating system.
- Connect both devices to the same Wi-Fi network.
- Update WhatsApp to the latest version.
- Use the same phone number on both phones.
- This method does not work between Android and iPhone.
This is a fast, secure, and fully cloud-free option.
Transfer WhatsApp Chats Between Android and iPhone (No Backup)
When switching between Android and iPhone, normal backups won’t help. However, WhatsApp supports official ways to move chats across platforms.
Move WhatsApp from Android to iPhone (Move to iOS App)
- Install Move to iOS on your Android phone.
- Set up the new iPhone until a transfer code appears.
- Enter the code on your Android device.
- Select WhatsApp from the data transfer list.
- Tap Start and allow WhatsApp to prepare data.
- Continue setup on the iPhone.
- Open WhatsApp on the iPhone and verify your number.
- Tap Start to complete the transfer.
Follow the steps carefully for smooth results.
Move WhatsApp from iPhone to Android Using Cable
- Use a new or factory-reset Android phone.
- Connect both phones using a Lightning to USB-C cable.
- Tap Trust on the iPhone if prompted.
- Follow the instructions shown on the Android screen.
- A QR code will appear.
- Open WhatsApp on the iPhone and scan the QR code.
- Wait until all chats are transferred.
- Log in to WhatsApp on the Android phone.
Make sure both phones have enough battery before starting.
Transfer WhatsApp Chats Without Backup Using a Computer Tool
If built-in options don’t work for you, a reliable desktop tool can help. EaseUS ChatTrans is one such option that supports Android, iPhone, and iPad.
It allows direct chat transfer without using Google Drive or iCloud.
How to Use EaseUS ChatTrans
- Connect both phones to your computer.
- Open EaseUS ChatTrans.
- Select WhatsApp from the main screen.
- Set the source and destination devices.
- Click Transfer and confirm.
- Wait until the process finishes.
- Disconnect the phones once done.
Key Features
- One-click chat transfer
- Supports Android ↔ iPhone
- Moves messages, photos, videos, and files
- No internet or cloud login required
- Can export chats as PDF or HTML
- Full control over your data
This method is simple and works well for many users.
Other Useful Ways to Transfer WhatsApp Without Backup
Local Backup Method (Android Only)
If you don’t want Google Drive, Android phones can use local files.
- Open WhatsApp → Settings → Chats → Backup.
- Set backup frequency to Never.
- Tap Back Up to create a local file.
- Open File Manager → Internal Storage → WhatsApp → Databases.
- Copy the database file.
- Move it to an SD card or computer.
- Place the file on the new Android phone.
- Install WhatsApp and verify the number.
- Tap Restore when asked.
This works only for Android to Android transfers.
iCloud Drive Method (Without WhatsApp Backup)
Instead of WhatsApp backup, iPhone users can rely on iCloud device data.
- On the old iPhone, open Settings → Apple ID → iCloud.
- Turn on WhatsApp under app list.
- Enable iCloud Backup and wait for sync.
- On the new iPhone, choose Restore from iCloud Backup during setup.
Chats will return when the phone setup finishes.
Transfer WhatsApp Using iTunes (iPhone Only)
- Connect the old iPhone to a computer.
- Open iTunes and select the device.
- Click Back Up Now.
- Connect the new iPhone.
- Choose Restore Backup.
- Open WhatsApp and verify the same number.
This method works only within Apple devices.
Bonus: Save WhatsApp Chats Using Email
If you only want to keep a few conversations:
- Open the chat in WhatsApp.
- Tap More → Export Chat.
- Choose with or without media.
- Select Email and send it to yourself.
This does not restore chats inside WhatsApp. It only saves them as a text record.
Know More: WhatsApp Chat Backup Encryption
Final Thoughts
You no longer need Google Drive or iCloud to move WhatsApp chats. For the same phone type, the QR code method is the easiest. For Android and iPhone switching, official tools like Move to iOS or cable transfer work well. Computer tools are useful when other options fail.
Pick the method that fits your phone and situation, and enjoy having all your old chats on your new device without stress.
Jatin Rajput (Tech Golu) — Tech blogger & YouTuber with 6+ years of experience in WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook, and mobile guides. Founder of TechGolu.in.