WhatsApp is in the process of developing a new feature that will enable iPhone users to back up their chats, photos, videos, and documents to WhatsApp’s own cloud storage, rather than depending on Apple’s iCloud. This move is part of a broader strategy to offer users more flexibility in how they choose to store their data.
The upcoming feature is set to provide users with 2GB of complimentary cloud storage for their chat backups. For those requiring additional space, there will likely be options to purchase more storage through various paid plans. Initial reports suggest that the entry-level plan could offer 50GB of storage, with plans for even larger capacities in the works. This feature aims to cater to users who might need more space than the standard offering provides.
Importantly, the feature will be optional, ensuring iPhone users can continue to use iCloud as their primary backup service if they prefer. For those who opt to try WhatsApp’s cloud storage, the option to revert to using iCloud will remain available, providing flexibility and choice for the user. WhatsApp’s cloud backups are anticipated to come with end-to-end encryption by default, which is expected to keep backup data secure and private.
Currently, this feature is undergoing testing through Apple’s TestFlight platform, suggesting that it is still in the experimental stage. As a result, there is no official timeline for when this feature will be available to the public. However, it signals WhatsApp’s ongoing efforts to enhance user experience and security. Furthermore, reports indicate that WhatsApp is working on a similar cloud backup solution for Android users, ensuring that this development could eventually benefit its entire user base.