Overview
- WhatsApp does not store chat history on its servers, so deleted messages are not retrievable from a recycle bin or cloud archive.
- Backups live on Google Drive for Android and iCloud for iPhone and can include messages, photos, and other media depending on settings.
- Videos return only if the backup was created with the Include videos option enabled in WhatsApp’s backup settings.
- To restore, users must reinstall the app, verify the account, and select Restore chat history, with possible extra identity checks by SMS or call.
- Restoration recovers data only up to the last backup, overwriting newer local data, and emptied chats are recoverable only from an older backup that predates the deletion.