How do I move a messaging app to a new phone or phone number?
Answer
This usually works by installing the app on the new phone, verifying the new number by text or call, and then restoring a chat backup that was saved to the cloud from the old phone. If chats were never backed up before switching, older conversations most likely cannot be recovered.
Before you start: stop right away if…
- A verification code sent to your phone should never be shared with anyone, including callers claiming to represent the app or your carrier.
- If no backup was ever created, chat history from the old phone usually cannot be recovered after reinstalling.
Follow these steps
Confirm the backup account
Check the cloud storage account you normally use (such as your phone's built-in backup service) to see if a chat backup for the app exists and note its date.
You should see: You know whether a backup exists and roughly how recent it is.
Install the app and enter the number
Download the app from the official app store, open it, and enter the phone number you want to use going forward.
You should see: The app sends a verification code by text or offers a call option.
Verify the number
Enter the code exactly as received. If it does not arrive within a couple of minutes, use the in-app option to request a call instead.
You should see: The number is verified and setup moves to the next screen.
Restore the backup
When prompted, choose the restore option if a backup is found for the account you are signed in with.
You should see: Old chats and media reappear once the restore finishes, which can take a few minutes on a slow connection.
Check chats after setup
Open a few older conversations to confirm messages and photos came back correctly.
You should see: History from before the last backup date is visible; anything after that date usually cannot be recovered.
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Extra tips
What to look for: Whether the app offers a 'Restore' option during setup, and any error shown when entering the verification code.
Before you change anything: Confirm which cloud account held the chat backup, and roughly when it was last saved. Check that the new phone has a working SIM and can receive texts or calls. Confirm you are downloading the app from the official app store listing. Never share a verification code with anyone, even someone claiming to be from the app's support team.