It can be frustrating when WhatsApp gets stuck while trying to upload a backup on an iPhone. There are a few potential reasons why this may happen and some steps you can try to fix it.
Main Reasons for WhatsApp Backup Stuck on iPhone
Here are some of the most common reasons Why WhatsApp may get stuck uploading a backup on an iPhone:
Insufficient iCloud Storage Space
WhatsApp backups are stored in iCloud Drive. If you don’t have enough available iCloud storage space, the backup process may stall. WhatsApp requires the backup size + around 200MB of available storage for the upload process to complete properly.
Poor Internet Connection
Uploading backups requires a stable internet connection. If you have a poor Wi-Fi or cellular data connection, the backup upload may hang indefinitely. Verifying you have a strong connection can help.
Outdated WhatsApp Version
Using an outdated version of WhatsApp that has bugs can also lead to backup issues. Make sure WhatsApp is updated to the latest version from the App Store.
Incorrect Date/Time Settings
If your iPhone’s date and time settings are incorrect, it can disrupt the WhatsApp backup process. Check that the date/time is set properly on your device.
Jailbroken iPhone
Jailbroken iPhones sometimes experience issues with WhatsApp backups. The jailbreak modifications can conflict with WhatsApp’s normal functioning.
Corrupt Backup File
In some cases, the backup file itself may have become corrupted. This can prevent WhatsApp from being able to upload it successfully.
How to Fix WhatsApp Backup Stuck on iPhone
If your WhatsApp backup is stuck on an iPhone, here are some troubleshooting steps to try:
1. Check Your iCloud Storage
Go to Settings > Your Name > iCloud > Manage Storage to see how much space you have available. You’ll need at least the backup size + ~200MB free. Delete content or upgrade your iCloud storage plan if needed.
2. Use a Stable Internet Connection
Try switching from Wi-Fi to cellular data or vice versa. Move closer to your Wi-Fi router. This ensures your internet connection is not disrupting the backup.
3. Update WhatsApp to the Latest Version
Go to the App Store, search for WhatsApp and see if any updates are available. Install the latest version so any bugs are fixed.
4. Verify Date/Time Settings
Go to Settings > General > Date & Time and make sure the date/time is correct and set to “Set Automatically” if possible. Incorrect date/time values can interfere with WhatsApp.
5. Check for Jailbreak Issues
If your iPhone is jailbroken, the modifications may conflict with WhatsApp. Consider restoring your device to remove the jailbreak first before troubleshooting further.
6. Delete and Retry the Backup
Delete the stuck backup from WhatsApp > Settings > Chats > Chat Backup. Then try making a fresh backup to see if it completes normally.
7. Contact WhatsApp Support
If all else fails, contact WhatsApp directly through their support options in the app. They may be able to further troubleshoot or recover your backup data if needed.
Preventing WhatsApp Backup Issues on iPhone
Here are some tips to avoid WhatsApp backup problems on an iPhone in the future:
- Routinely check your iCloud storage usage and clear space when getting full.
- Perform WhatsApp backups over Wi-Fi instead of cellular data.
- Keep WhatsApp updated to the latest version.
- Don’t jailbreak your iPhone as it can cause app issues.
- Set your date/time to “Set Automatically” under iPhone settings.
Following these best practices will help ensure your WhatsApp backups complete successfully without errors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my WhatsApp backup stuck for days?
If your WhatsApp backup is stuck for days, the most common reasons are insufficient iCloud storage, poor internet connection, or a corrupted backup file. Check these factors and delete old backups to see if a fresh one will complete.
Why is WhatsApp stuck on verifying backup?
The verifying backup stage checks the integrity of your backup data before uploading. It may get stuck if you have a bad internet connection or your backup file is damaged. Try deleting the backup and making a new one.
How can I fix if WhatsApp is stuck on preparing backup?
If preparing backup is stuck, first ensure you have enough iCloud storage available. Also try force quitting and relaunching WhatsApp to restart the backup process. Switch to a better internet connection if needed.
What should I do if my WhatsApp backup is stuck at 100%?
If your WhatsApp backup gets stuck at 100%, wait for 10-15 minutes as it may resolve itself. If not, force quit WhatsApp, toggle airplane mode, verify your internet connection, and try again. Check your iCloud storage also.
Why does my WhatsApp backup fail halfway?
Some common reasons for a WhatsApp backup failing halfway include: network connection drops, not enough iCloud storage space, WhatsApp crashes or exits, iOS issues/bugs. Check these potential causes before retrying the backup.
Conclusion
WhatsApp backups getting stuck while uploading to iCloud is a reasonably common frustration for iPhone users. The most likely culprits are insufficient iCloud storage, poor internet connectivity, outdated WhatsApp version, or a damaged backup file. Following the troubleshooting steps outlined can typically get your WhatsApp backup back on track. Preventing issues in the future comes down to proactively managing your iCloud storage, using Wi-Fi for backups, and keeping WhatsApp updated. With proper care, WhatsApp backups on your iPhone should operate smoothly.
| Reason for Stuck Backup | Fixes to Try |
|---|---|
| Insufficient iCloud storage | Delete content to free up space or upgrade iCloud plan |
| Poor internet connection | Switch from Wi-Fi to cellular data or vice versa. Move closer to router. |
| Outdated WhatsApp | Update to the latest WhatsApp version from App Store |
| Incorrect date/time | Set date/time to automatic under iPhone settings |
| Jailbroken iPhone | Consider restoring device to remove jailbreak |
| Corrupt backup file | Delete old backup and attempt a fresh backup |