WhatsApp is working on a new feature that will allow iPhone users to back up their chats, photos, videos, and documents to its own cloud storage service rather than Apple’s iCloud. This development is expected to provide an alternative for users looking to manage their backups with more flexibility. The service reportedly offers 2GB of free storage, with the possibility of purchasing additional space through paid plans. An entry-level option is anticipated to provide 50GB of storage, and higher-capacity plans are also in the works.
This feature will be optional, allowing iPhone users to continue using iCloud as their default backup service if they prefer. Those who opt for WhatsApp’s cloud storage option will have the flexibility to revert to iCloud whenever they choose. The new backup system will reportedly include end-to-end encryption by default, ensuring that all backup data is securely protected from unauthorized access.
Currently, the feature is being tested through Apple’s TestFlight platform, but there is no official timeline for when it will be publicly available. The testing phase suggests that WhatsApp is keen to iron out any potential issues before rolling out the feature widely, ensuring a smooth user experience upon release.
In addition to the developments for iPhone users, WhatsApp is also reportedly working on a similar cloud backup feature for Android users. This indicates a broader strategy by WhatsApp to enhance its storage solutions across different platforms, catering to a diverse user base with varied preferences and needs.
Overall, the introduction of WhatsApp’s proprietary cloud storage option represents a significant shift in how users might manage their data backups. By providing an alternative to iCloud, WhatsApp could offer its users more control over their data management, with the added assurance of strong encryption to protect their personal information.