WhatsApp is preparing for a significant change in its backup system, one that may change the way we store our chat history. According to a new report by the WABetaInfo website, the company is about to offer users a new and independent cloud backup option, which will operate under WhatsApp’s own management. The move is intended to solve one of the problems that has bothered users in recent years: The absolute dependence on third-party providers such as Google and Apple, and the fact that message backups "consume" the already limited storage quotas.
Currently, Android users rely exclusively on Google Drive, where the backup volume is deducted from the overall quota of the Google account, which also includes photos and emails. The situation is similar for iPhone users with the iCloud service. According to the report, WhatsApp will allow users to choose where to store their data: Continue with the current cloud provider, or switch to using the "WhatsApp cloud". Those who choose the new option are expected to receive free storage of up to 2 gigabytes, although at this stage it is still unclear whether the benefit will be given to all users or only to paid subscribers (WhatsApp Plus).
Beyond the storage issue, WhatsApp is placing strict emphasis on information security. Backups in the new cloud will be end-to-end encrypted by default as a mandatory setting. To make access to the backup simpler and more secure, the company is integrating Passkeys technology (access keys). Instead of remembering complex passwords or 64-digit encryption codes, users will be able to unlock the backup using biometric identification – such as a fingerprint or facial recognition – stored securely in the device’s password manager.
For users with especially heavy message histories, including many photos and videos, WhatsApp is also examining a new economic model. The emerging plan, as revealed by WABetaInfo, includes the option to purchase expanded storage of 50 gigabytes at a competitive price of about $0.99. This is an accessible solution for those who encounter the storage limits of Google and Apple and do not wish to upgrade their overall cloud package just for WhatsApp messages.
The new feature is currently in development and testing stages as part of the app’s beta versions. For now, no official launch date has been published, and the company may make adjustments to prices and storage volumes before the service is opened to the general public.