If your WhatsApp chat history backup is frozen right before completion, you are not alone. This guide provides the most effective solutions for resolving the "stuck at 99%" glitch on both Android (Google Drive) and iPhone (iCloud).
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Contents 📋
Why Does the Backup Get Stuck at 99%?
The 99% failure point usually indicates one of two things: the backup process successfully transferred all chat text and smaller files but hit an error when trying to upload the final, largest piece of data (often a video file), or there is an issue with the cloud service's final verification step.
Common causes include:
- Insufficient Cloud Storage: The device thinks the space is enough, but the cloud service rejects the final transfer.
- Corrupted Local Data: A specific file or database entry is blocking the finalization.
- Connectivity Timeout: The Wi-Fi connection times out during the transfer of a large media file.
Universal Fixes (Applies to All Devices)
Try these essential steps first, regardless of whether you are on Android or iPhone.
1. Exclude Videos from Backup
Videos are the largest part of any backup. Excluding them often solves the 99% problem instantly.
- Open **WhatsApp** > **Settings**.
- Go to **Chats** > **Chat Backup**.
- **Uncheck** the option **Include videos**.
- Try running the backup again. If successful, the issue was with a large video file.
2. Check and Clear Cloud Storage Space
Verify that you have ample free space on Google Drive (Android) or iCloud (iPhone).
- If your backup is 5GB, ensure you have at least 6-7GB of free space.
- Delete unnecessary files from your cloud storage to free up room.
3. Ensure Stable Wi-Fi
Move closer to your router or switch to a faster, more reliable Wi-Fi network. Avoid using mobile data for large backups as timeouts are more likely.
Android Fixes (Google Drive Specific)
These steps address app-specific data issues unique to the Android operating system.
1. Clear WhatsApp Cache and Data
Clearing the cache can fix internal app errors without deleting your messages. Clearing data is a last resort and should be avoided if your chats are not backed up.
- Go to Settings on your phone > Apps > See all apps.
- Find and tap on **WhatsApp**.
- Select **Storage & cache**.
- Tap **Clear cache**. (Do NOT tap Clear storage/data unless you are prepared to lose unbacked-up chats).
- Try the backup again.
2. Verify Google Account Connection
Ensure the correct Google account is linked and permission is granted.
- In WhatsApp Settings > **Chats** > **Chat Backup**.
- Verify the **Google Account** listed is correct and connected.
iPhone Fixes (iCloud Specific)
These solutions focus on iOS and iCloud synchronization issues.
1. Manually Sign Out and Back Into iCloud
If iCloud is glitching, signing out and back in can re-establish sync integrity for WhatsApp.
- Go to Settings > [Your Name] at the top.
- Scroll down and tap **Sign Out**.
- After a few minutes, sign back in.
- Then, ensure **iCloud Drive** is enabled for WhatsApp: Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud > **Show All** > ensure **WhatsApp** is On.
2. Delete Corrupted Backup (Last Resort)
If all else fails, a previous failed backup file might be corrupting the new process.
- Go to Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud > Manage Account Storage.
- Find **WhatsApp** in the list.
- Tap **Delete Data** (or Edit > Delete All).
- **Warning:** This deletes the entire cloud history. Only proceed if you are sure your local chats are intact and you are ready to start a fresh backup.