If you’ve ever changed phones, reinstalled WhatsApp, or tried to recover old chats, you’ve probably asked: where do I find the WhatsApp backups on Drive?
WhatsApp automatically backs up your chats to Google Drive. Many users are surprised when they can’t see those files directly.
In this guide. You’ll learn exactly where WhatsApp backups are stored
How to access them and what to do if your backup is missing.
Where Is WhatsApp Backup Stored on Google Drive?
WhatsApp backups are stored in a hidden app data folder inside Google Drive.
This means you cannot open or read the backup files manually like regular documents.
Backup Location
- Google Drive → App Data → WhatsApp
- This folder is not visible in the main Drive file list
👉 Important: WhatsApp backups are encrypted, so only WhatsApp itself can restore them.
How to Find WhatsApp Backup on Google Drive (Step-by-Step)
Follow these steps to check if your WhatsApp backup exists:
- Open Google Drive on your phone or computer
- Log in using the same Google account linked to WhatsApp
- Click the gear icon (⚙️ Settings)
- Select Manage Apps
- Scroll down to find WhatsApp Messenger
Here, you’ll see:
- Backup size
- Last backup date
- Storage usage
✅ If WhatsApp appears here, your backup is safely stored.
Why Can’t I See WhatsApp Backup Files in Google Drive?
This is completely normal. WhatsApp backups:
- Do not appear in “My Drive”
- Cannot be downloaded or opened
Google Drive only allows WhatsApp to access these backups.
How to Restore WhatsApp Backup from Google Drive
To restore your chats:
- Install WhatsApp on your new or reset phone
- Verify the same phone number
- Sign in with the same Google account
- Tap Restore when prompted
📌 WhatsApp will automatically detect the backup stored in Google Drive.
If WhatsApp can’t detect your backup, check the following:
- ❌ Wrong Google account
- ❌ Different phone number
- ❌ Google Drive backup disabled
- ❌ Backup deleted due to inactivity (after ~5 months)
- ❌ No internet connection during restore
How to Enable WhatsApp Backup on Google Drive
To avoid losing chats in the future:
- Open WhatsApp
- Go to Settings → Chats → Chat backup
- Tap Back up to Google Drive
- Select your Google account
🔒 You can also enable end-to-end encrypted backups for extra security.
FAQs: WhatsApp Backup on Drive
Can I download WhatsApp backup from Google Drive?
No. Google does not allow downloading WhatsApp backup files.
Does WhatsApp backup count toward Google Drive storage?
As of recent updates, WhatsApp backups may count toward your Drive storage depending on region and policy changes.
How long does Google Drive keep WhatsApp backups?
If unused, backups are usually deleted after 5 months.
Final Thoughts
So, where do I find the WhatsApp backup on Drive?
While you can’t see the files directly, they are safely stored in Google Drive’s hidden app data and can be restored anytime using WhatsApp.
Keeping automatic backups enabled ensures your chats, photos, and videos are always protected.