Read and prepare

How to view a WhatsApp export on a computer

Move a TXT or ZIP to a trusted computer, inspect it locally and choose between a text view, the UnPack workspace and saved outputs.

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Confirm what you have

Locate the actual exported TXT or ZIP, not a screenshot, an account backup or a shortcut to a cloud file that has not downloaded. Keep the original independently and use a working copy. If you still need the file, start with the phone export guide.

Transfer it using a method appropriate for its sensitivity. Check that the transfer finished and that the file is available on the computer. Do not assume that a cloud-synchronised folder is accessible only on that device.

Choose how to read it

A plain-text editor can show a TXT without a specialist viewer. That is useful for checking the source, but long exchanges and media references can be difficult to follow. Avoid saving over the original after opening it.

In UnPack, open the workspace on a laptop or desktop and choose the TXT or ZIP. Evidence processing happens in your browser. No account or evidence upload is needed to read and search the imported conversation.

Search a phrase, move between matches and read the surrounding messages. Inspect participants, dates and media warnings before narrowing the displayed range. A search match is a place to begin reading, not a complete explanation of an exchange.

If an import does not work

For help, contact support with the action and error wording. Do not attach private chats or packages to an initial support message.

Decide what to keep

Review and preparation are free. Printable PDF and Evidence Package saving require export access. Unsaved work can be lost when you refresh or close the tab, so save an updated package when access is available. Keep the browser-generated PDF separately if you need one.

Start with your conversation.

Import and explore free. Built for laptop and desktop.

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