Ah, WhatsApp. This ubiquitous messaging platform has woven itself into the fabric of our daily communication. Despite its ease of use and wide adoption, there are times when we find ourselves scratching our heads over certain features or functions. In this article, I will attempt to shed light on the top 15 most googled questions related to WhatsApp help. So sit tight, and let’s embark on this journey of exploration.
1. How to backup WhatsApp chats?
It’s no secret that our WhatsApp chats can hold priceless memories and vital information. So, how can we protect them?
Backing up on Android
On Android, the process is relatively simple:
- Open WhatsApp
- Tap on “Menu” (three dots on the top right corner),
- Click “Settings” > “Chats” > ”Chat Backup”,
- You can select “Backup to Google Drive” to set up automatic backup frequency or tap “Back Up” to manually backup your chats.
Backing up on iOS
The process varies slightly for iPhone users:
- Open WhatsApp
- Click on “Settings” at the bottom right
- Go to “Chats” > “Chat Backup”,
- Click on “Back Up Now” or enable “Auto Back Up”.
Remember, your device needs to be linked with a Google or iCloud account for the backup to occur.
2. How to restore WhatsApp chat history?
What about getting those precious conversations back? On both Android and iOS, you need to:
- Uninstall and reinstall WhatsApp.
- Once installed, open the app and verify your number.
- WhatsApp will then prompt you to “Restore” messages from a backup. Click on it.
- Your messages should reappear.
3. Can you use WhatsApp on a computer?
Yes, indeed! Provided you have a stable internet connection on both your smartphone and your computer. You can use it via the WhatsApp Web or Desktop app by scanning a QR code.
4. How to archive chats on WhatsApp?
Archiving chats keeps them hidden but not deleted.
- On Android – Long press on the chat you wish to archive > Click on the Archive icon on the top.
- On iOS – Swipe left on the chat > Click Archive.
5. How to unarchive chats on WhatsApp?
On Android, scroll to the bottom of your chat list where you have the “Archived” option. Click on it, long-press the chat you wish to unarchive, and click the “Unarchive” icon at the top. On iOS, pull down from the top of your chat list > “Archived Chats” > Swipe left on the chat you want to unarchive > Unarchive.
6. How to block a contact on WhatsApp?
Under the chat with the contact:
- On Android – Tap the menu (three-dotted icon) > More > Block.
- On iOS – Tap on the contact’s name > Scroll to the end and tap Block Contact.
7. Can you unblock a contact on WhatsApp?
Just as easily as blocking, you can unblock a contact, too.
- On Android – Under “Settings” > “Account” > “Privacy” > “Blocked Contacts” – Choose the contact and tap Unblock.
- On iOS – Under “Settings” > “Account” > “Privacy” > “Blocked” – Swipe left on the contact and tap Unblock.
8. Can you use WhatsApp without a phone number?
Typically, no. But with the help of a landline or a VoIP number, you can still sign up for WhatsApp.
9. How to mute notifications on WhatsApp?
Going to a noisy group chat or a specific contact:
- On Android – Click on the “Menu” > “Mute notifications” > Choose duration.
- On iOS – Tap on the contact or group name > “Mute” > Choose duration.
10. Can WhatsApp messages be traced?
While your messages on WhatsApp are end-to-end encrypted, meaning not even WhatsApp can read them, they can potentially be read if your device is compromised or if you’ve backed up your chats to the cloud without encryption.
11. Can you schedule messages on WhatsApp?
Unfortunately, WhatsApp doesn’t have a built-in option to schedule messages. However, you can utilize third-party apps such as SKEDit on Android to do so.
12. What is two-step verification on WhatsApp?
Two-step verification is an optional feature that adds more security to your account. You can enable it under “Settings” > “Account” > “Two-step verification” > “Enable”.
13. How to exit a WhatsApp group?
To exit a group, open it and click on the group name at the top > scroll down > exit group.
14. How to delete a message for everyone on WhatsApp?
Got regrets about a message you just sent?
- Long-press on the message > Click trash bin icon at the top > Delete for everyone.
Remember, you have up to an hour to delete the message after it’s been sent.
15. Can WhatsApp calls be recorded?
Although WhatsApp doesn’t have a built-in recording function, you can use third-party apps or your phone’s in-built screen recording feature to record calls.
There you have it, the answers to the 15 most googled WhatsApp queries. The next time you find yourself puzzled with a feature or a function, I hope this article serves as a handy guide. Do you have a pressing question we haven’t addressed here? Feel free to comment below, and let’s continue this conversation.
