WhatsApp is in the process of testing a new feature that could change how iPhone users manage their chat backups. Instead of depending solely on Apple’s iCloud, WhatsApp aims to introduce its own cloud storage solution for backing up chats, photos, videos, and documents. This new option is expected to come with 2GB of free storage, providing users with an alternative to Apple’s service.
For users requiring more storage, WhatsApp plans to offer paid options. The entry-level paid plan is expected to provide 50GB of additional storage, with even larger plans reportedly being developed to cater to varying user needs. Despite the introduction of this new feature, iCloud will remain the default backup service for iPhone users, ensuring that those who prefer Apple’s ecosystem can continue using it without any changes.
Importantly, the new cloud backup option from WhatsApp is designed to be flexible and secure. Users who decide to switch to WhatsApp’s cloud storage will retain the ability to revert to iCloud at any time should they choose. Moreover, the backups made to WhatsApp’s cloud storage are anticipated to include end-to-end encryption by default, a measure that would protect the data and ensure user privacy is maintained.
Currently, this feature is being tested using Apple’s TestFlight platform, which allows developers to trial new applications and updates before they are publicly released. However, there is no official announcement regarding when this functionality might become available to the general public. Alongside this development for iPhone users, WhatsApp is reportedly working on a similar cloud backup solution for those using Android devices, indicating a broader plan to enhance storage capabilities across different platforms.