[Updated] WhatsApp backup not working or stuck on 'preparing' even after iOS 16.2 update for a section of users

New updates are being added at the bottom of this story…….

Original story (published on December 22, 2022) follows:

WhatsApp is one of the most popular free messaging and video calling platforms. It lets you message privately with end-to-end encryption, helps build community, and more.

The app also receives regular updates that further bring major tweaks and features. However, it seems that the iOS 16.2 update has broken the backup functionality.

It’s not the first time that things have gone haywire after iOS 16.2 update. It also prevented Apple Podcast users from downloading podcasts recently.

WhatsApp backup not working or stuck

Some iPhone (1,2,3,4,5) users have now taken to social media platforms to report an issue where WhatsApp backup stopped working or got stuck on ‘preparing’ after iOS 16.2 update.

@WhatsApp Backup on the app has been stuck on preparing for over a week, your help dept does not reply, what’s happening?
Source

@WhatsApp backup not working, I already tried with my Iphone, wife & son iphone. Only prepare backup and never finished completely.
Source

Whenever users start a backup on the app, the process gets stuck on ‘Preparing’. And it remains that way for hours and even days sometimes.

It seems that those with good network connectivity and enough space in their devices are also struggling with this issue.

Even though it has been pestering users for quite some time now, it still persists with iOS 16.2 and remains stuck nonetheless. For reference, you can check out the image attached below:

Potential workaround

We have come across a workaround that can help solve the issue temporarily. It includes a number of some steps as listed below.

Unfortunately, Apple hasn’t commented on the issue yet. There’s also no comment from WhatsApp developers. But we hope that either of the teams introduces a permanent fix at the earliest.

03:41 pm (IST): One of those affected has suggested a workaround that might help you fix this problem. You can check it out below.

Just found a new (to me) work round. Click on “backup now” in WhatsApp and after just a few seconds kill the app; quickly open the app again and repeat. I only had to do this twice for backup to work. It worked for my wife too but she he’d to do it about 4 times. Try it (Source)

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