Switch from WhatsApp to Threema
Threema is a Swiss messenger that works without a phone number. You install it, save the WhatsApp chats you want to keep as files, bring your contacts over and then delete your WhatsApp account.
Good to know
- Threema is a one-time purchase with no recurring costs.
- Your WhatsApp chat history does not move into Threema. You can keep chats as exported files.
- Menu names are given as the official help pages name them. They can differ slightly depending on app version and language.
Steps
Install Threema and create your Threema ID
Install Threema from your app store. On Android you can also buy it in the Threema Shop, without a Google account. On first start, Threema creates a random 8-digit Threema ID. That ID is your address. Linking a phone number or email address is optional.
Source: Threema: Threema Private, Threema FAQ: What is a Threema ID?
Set up Threema Safe
Turn on Threema Safe so your ID, contacts, groups and settings are backed up. Chats, media files and profile pictures are not part of this backup.
Source: Threema FAQ: Moving between operating systems (Threema Safe)
Save the WhatsApp chats you want to keep
In WhatsApp, open a chat, tap the contact's name or the group subject and choose Export chat. Decide whether to attach media or export without media, then save the file or send it to yourself. Repeat this for every chat you want to keep.
Source: WhatsApp Help Center: How to export your chat history
Bring your contacts along
Send your Threema ID to the people you write to most, for example as your last WhatsApp message. Threema has a page with arguments you can share with friends who are unsure.
Source: Threema blog: How to get your friends to use Threema
Move your groups
Create the groups you need in Threema and invite the members who have already switched. Tell the old WhatsApp group where the conversation continues.
Delete your WhatsApp account
When everyone important is on Threema, delete your account inside WhatsApp under Settings > Account > Delete my account. This removes your account info and profile photo, takes you out of all groups and deletes your message history. Messages other people received from you stay on their phones. Only uninstalling the app does not delete the account.
Sources
Official help pages of the providers, last checked on 25 September 2026. Providers change their apps: if a step no longer matches, the linked help page is authoritative.