Switching between Android and iOS is always associated with quite large hurdles. Perhaps the most important: Whatsapp. To make the move easier, Apple now offers in-house assistance.

Anyone who not only changes the device with the new smartphone, but also the system, has a lot of work ahead of them. Because many apps store their backups in the cloud offerings of the respective providers, which makes it difficult to exchange important data when setting up the new hardware.

Apple now wants to make the complicated process easier and now offers real help with an update to the “Transfer to iOS” app. Although Apple writes that the software is supported on all cell phones and tablets with Android 4.0 and newer, the “Whatsapp function” only seems to be usable from Android 5.

Whatsapp from Android to iOS: The preparation

In order for the chats and files to be moved successfully, a handful of prerequisites must be met. The Android device must run at least Android 5, the iPhone requires iOS 15.5 or newer. Both devices must be equipped with the current Whatsapp version and the phone number used must be identical. Whatsapp explains that a connected power source and WLAN are also prerequisites for it to work.

The data transfer takes place locally and can only be initiated if the iPhone is new or has been reset – because “Transfer to iOS” only connects to an Apple smartphone during the initial setup.

Step by Step: Transfer Whatsapp from Android to iPhone

Whatsapp describes exactly how the move works in step-by-step instructions.

The following data should be found on the iPhone after completion: account information, profile picture, individual and group chats, chat history, media and settings. The call log, display name and peer-to-peer payment messages will be missing.

Also read: iPhone and iPad: Apple didn’t show these cool innovations on stage

Sources: Apple, Whatsapp