Quick answers.

What to know before you open an export.

Download on the App StoreHow to export a chat
I exported a chat from WhatsApp and got a ZIP with a large text file and media files. Can Chat Archive make it readable?

Yes. Open the WhatsApp ZIP and Chat Archive rebuilds it as a chat: message bubbles, photos, voice messages, and attachments together.

I lost my WhatsApp chats and have no backup. Can Chat Archive help?

Yes, if another participant still has the conversation. Ask them to export the chat from WhatsApp and send you the ZIP. Open it in Chat Archive to keep your own readable copy.

Read the careful workflow
Can Chat Archive transcribe voice messages?

Yes. Chat Archive can transcribe voice messages on iPhone and make transcripts searchable with the rest of the chat.

Can I browse photos and videos from an exported chat?

Yes. Export the chat with media, then use Chat Archive to browse photos, videos, documents, audio, and other attachments from the ZIP.

Can I save an important chat as a PDF?

Yes. Chat Archive creates a readable PDF with a cover, summary, participant table, chronological chat bubbles, message IDs, attachment index, file previews, and voice transcripts when available. Preview it on iPhone, then use iOS to save, share, or print.

WhatsApp is using multiple gigabytes. Can Chat Archive help me clear space?

Yes. Export a large conversation, save the ZIP somewhere you control, then open it in Chat Archive. Check that the messages, photos, files, and voice messages you care about are included and render well. Then decide what to clear from WhatsApp, keeping newer messages there and older ones in Chat Archive.

Read the storage guide
Are my messages stored on my iPhone?

Yes. Chat Archive opens the WhatsApp export on your iPhone and processes imported chat content on your device.

Read the privacy guide
What kind of file does Chat Archive open?

Chat Archive opens ZIP files created by WhatsApp's Export Chat feature.

How do I export a chat?

In WhatsApp, open the chat, tap the chat name, scroll to Export Chat, then choose whether to include media. Open the ZIP in Chat Archive.

Can I search old messages?

Yes. Search names, dates, places, phrases, and available voice transcripts after you open the export.

Can I share a group export?

Yes, when it is appropriate and you have permission. Exports can include private messages, names, files, and media.

Is Chat Archive affiliated with WhatsApp?

Chat Archive is an independent app.