The QR code method can only be used to transfer WhatsApp chat history when switching between Android and iPhone, not between two devices of the same OS; 1. Ensure both phones are charged, on the same Wi-Fi, with Bluetooth and location enabled, and have the latest WhatsApp version; 2. On the old phone, go to WhatsApp → Settings → Chats → Chat transfer and tap Continue to generate a QR code; 3. On the new phone, verify your number, tap "Transfer chats from old phone", select "Link with QR code", and scan the QR code from the old phone; 4. Wait for the transfer to complete without closing WhatsApp or locking screens, after which all messages, photos, videos, and voice notes will appear on the new device; end-to-end encryption is maintained, the transfer is one-time during setup, media files are included, group info is preserved, and the old phone retains its data unless uninstalled; however, WhatsApp Status, payments, business catalog, linked devices, and local settings do not transfer and must be set up again; if issues occur, ensure Wi-Fi connection, restart WhatsApp, reinstall on the new phone, or improve camera focus and proximity to the router—this method is the most secure and efficient for cross-platform transfers if done during initial setup.

Transferring WhatsApp chat history using a QR code is a feature introduced for switching between phones—especially between iOS and Android—without relying on Google Drive or iCloud backups. This method, called "Move to iOS" or "Chat Transfer via QR", allows you to securely transfer your chat history directly from your old phone to your new one. Here's how it works:

? When Can You Use the QR Code Method?

The QR code transfer works only when switching from an Android phone to an iPhone, or from an iPhone to an Android phone. It does not work when switching between two iPhones or two Android devices (for those, use iCloud or Google Drive).

This feature is ideal if:

• You’re switching operating systems
• You want an end-to-end encrypted transfer
• You don’t want to rely on cloud storage or Wi-Fi

? Step-by-Step: Transfer WhatsApp Chats Using QR Code

1. Set Up Your New Phone

Make sure:

• Your new phone is charged (at least 50%)
• Both phones are connected to the same Wi-Fi network
• Bluetooth and location services are enabled on both devices
• You have the latest version of WhatsApp installed

Note: On the new phone, don’t verify your number in WhatsApp yet.

2. Open WhatsApp on Your Old Phone

Go to:

WhatsApp → Settings → Chats → Chat transfer

Tap Continue. WhatsApp will generate a QR code on the screen.

3. Start Transfer on Your New Phone

On the new phone:

• Open WhatsApp
• Verify your phone number (same number as on the old device)
• When prompted, tap "Transfer chats from old phone"
• Tap "Link with QR code"

Now, use the new phone’s camera to scan the QR code displayed on your old phone.

4. Wait for the Transfer to Complete

Once the QR code is scanned:

• Both phones will show a progress bar
• Do not close WhatsApp or lock the screens
• The transfer can take several minutes, depending on chat size

After it finishes:

• All your messages, photos, videos, and voice notes will appear on the new phone
• You’ll be prompted to set up your profile and chats

?? Important Notes

• End-to-end encryption is maintained: The data is transferred directly between devices and not stored on servers.
• One-time transfer: You can only do this once during setup. If you skip it, you’ll need to use a cloud backup.
• Media files included: Unlike some backups, this method transfers photos, videos, and documents along with text.
• No group chat history loss: Admins and group info are preserved.
• Old phone keeps data: Your old phone still has WhatsApp and its data unless you uninstall it.

? What Doesn’t Transfer?

Even with QR code transfer, the following won’t be moved:

• WhatsApp Status (stories)
• Payments and transaction history
• Business catalog or linked devices
• Local app settings (notifications, wallpaper, etc.)

You’ll need to set these up again on the new device.

Troubleshooting Tips

If the QR code doesn’t work:

• Make sure both devices are on the same Wi-Fi
• Restart WhatsApp on both phones
• Reinstall WhatsApp on the new phone and try again
• Ensure the camera can focus clearly on the QR code
• Try moving closer to the router to improve connection

Basically, the QR code method is the easiest and most secure way to move your WhatsApp history when switching between Android and iPhone. Just remember to do it during initial setup—once you skip it, you’re locked into cloud backups.

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