How to Delete WhatsApp Backup in Google Drive?
WhatsApp backups work with Google Drive, unlike normal files. WhatsApp backups are stored as hidden app data. This means you cannot find them directly in your Drive folders. Instead, they are linked to your Google account through the app integration system.
When WhatsApp performs a backup, it uploads encrypted data, including messages, images, videos, and voice notes, to your Google Drive. These backups do not count toward your Drive storage in many cases, but they are still accessible for deletion.
Deleting a backup removes your ability to restore chats from that specific file. If you plan to switch devices or reinstall WhatsApp, make sure you do not need the backup anymore before deleting it.
Now let’s go through the step-by-step process.
How to Delete WhatsApp Backup in Google Drive?
To delete a WhatsApp backup in Google Drive, open Google Drive, go to Settings, access Manage Apps, find WhatsApp Messenger, and remove hidden app data. This deletes the stored backup permanently and prevents future restoration from that backup.
Step 1: Open Google Drive on Your Device
The first step is to access your Google Drive account. You can do this using a web browser on your PC or laptop, or through the Google Drive mobile app.
If you are using a computer, open your browser and go to the Google Drive website. Sign in using the same Google account that is linked to your WhatsApp.
Make sure you log in with the correct account. If you use multiple Gmail accounts, your WhatsApp backup will only be stored in the one you selected during backup setup.
Step 2: Access Google Drive Settings
Once you are inside Google Drive, look for the Settings option. On the desktop, you will find a gear icon in the top right corner of the screen. Click on it to open the settings menu.
After clicking the gear icon, select Settings from the dropdown. This will open a new window containing various configuration options related to your Google Drive.
This section is important because WhatsApp backups are not visible in the normal file view. You must access them through the settings panel.
Step 3: Navigate to the Manage Apps Section
Inside the settings window, locate the tab called Manage Apps. This section shows all applications connected to your Google Drive account.
Scroll through the list of apps until you find WhatsApp Messenger. It may appear along with other connected apps like Google Docs or third-party tools.
Once you find WhatsApp Messenger, you will notice that it mentions hidden app data. This is where your backup is stored.
Step 4: Locate WhatsApp Hidden Data
Next to WhatsApp Messenger, you will see an option labeled Options or a dropdown menu. Click on it to reveal additional actions.
Here, you will see an option such as Delete hidden app data. This is the key option used to remove your WhatsApp backup from Google Drive.
Take a moment to ensure that this is the correct app before proceeding, as deleting hidden data is permanent.
Step 5: Delete WhatsApp Backup
Click on Delete hidden app data. A confirmation prompt will appear asking if you are sure you want to remove the data.
Confirm the action to proceed. Once confirmed, Google Drive will permanently delete your WhatsApp backup.
This action cannot be undone. After deletion, you will not be able to restore chats from that backup file.
Step 6: Verify Backup Removal
After deleting the backup, it is a good idea to verify that it has been removed successfully.
Refresh the Manage Apps section and check if WhatsApp still shows stored data. If the backup is deleted, it will no longer display any associated data.
You can also open WhatsApp on your phone and check backup settings to ensure that no old backup is detected.
Step 7: Disable Future Backups if Needed
If your goal is to stop WhatsApp from creating backups again, you should disable automatic backups within the app.
Open WhatsApp on your phone, go to Settings, then Chats, and select Chat Backup. Here, you can change the backup frequency to Never.
This prevents WhatsApp from uploading new backups to Google Drive in the future.
FAQs
What happens when I delete my WhatsApp backup from Google Drive?
When you delete the backup, all the stored chat history and media saved in that backup are permanently removed. You will not be able to restore chats using that backup.
Can I recover a deleted WhatsApp backup?
No, once the backup is deleted from Google Drive, it cannot be recovered. You would need a local backup on your device if available.
Does deleting the backup affect my current chats?
No, deleting the backup does not affect the chats currently stored on your phone. It only removes the cloud backup.
Why can’t I find my WhatsApp backup in Google Drive files?
WhatsApp backups are stored as hidden app data. They are not visible like regular files and can only be accessed through the Manage Apps section.
Will deleting the backup free up Google Drive storage?
In many cases, WhatsApp backups do not count against your storage quota. However, deleting them can still help keep your account clean and secure.
Can I delete the backup from my mobile instead of my PC?
Yes, you can use the Google Drive mobile app or a browser on your phone. The steps are similar, but the interface may look slightly different.
How often does WhatsApp create backups?
WhatsApp can create backups daily, weekly, or monthly, depending on your settings. You can change this frequency in the app settings.