WhatsApp is working on a new feature aimed at iPhone users, allowing them to store chat backups, including photos, videos, and documents, directly on WhatsApp’s own cloud service instead of Apple’s iCloud. This development could offer users more flexibility in managing their data backups.
The upcoming feature will initially provide 2GB of free storage for these backups. For users who require additional space, WhatsApp is reportedly planning to introduce paid storage plans, starting with an option that offers 50GB. Larger storage options are also said to be in the pipeline, catering to users with even more extensive backup needs.
While iCloud will remain the default backup method for iPhone users, the new WhatsApp cloud storage option will be available as an alternative. Users can switch between WhatsApp’s cloud and iCloud at their convenience, ensuring they have control over where their data is stored. Importantly, these cloud backups are expected to come with end-to-end encryption, maintaining the security and privacy of users’ data.
Currently, this feature is undergoing testing through Apple’s TestFlight platform, with no official timeline announced for its public release. In addition to the iPhone update, WhatsApp is also said to be developing a similar cloud backup solution for Android users, indicating a broader move towards enhancing data storage options across different platforms.