WhatsApp may soon let you back up chats without Google Drive, here is how
Follow UsWhatsApp is testing passkey-based encryption using biometrics for more secure chat backups
Users may get an option to store backups on WhatsApp cloud with up to 2GB free storage
A paid plan with higher storage (around 50GB) could also be introduced in the future
After reports claiming that WhatsApp’s end-to-end encryption is not safe, the Meta-owned platform is working on a set of new features to improve it. As per the report, the changes can introduce passkey-based encryption along with an option to store backups directly on WhatsApp’s own cloud infrastructure.
SurveyThe report cited recent beta developments, WhatsApp can soon allow users to protect their chat backups using passkeys instead of traditional passwords. This approach relies on device-based authentication methods such as fingerprints, facial recognition or screen locks, making backups more secure and easier to access.
This comes at a time when chat backups are now growing in size, often consuming a large portion of cloud storage on services like Google Drive and iCloud. Currently, Android users depend solely on Google Drive for backups, which means their storage is shared with photos, videos and other app data. This limitation has led to increasing demand for more flexible backup options.
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To fix, WhatsApp is exploring a new system that can let users choose where to store their backups. In addition to Google Drive, users may get the option to save data on a dedicated WhatsApp cloud service. Early indications suggest that the platform could offer up to 2GB of free storage, though it remains unclear whether this will be available to all users or tied to a potential premium subscription.
The report also mentioned that WhatsApp servers are said to be end-to-end encrypted by default, with users able to choose between passkeys, passwords or a 64-digit encryption key for added protection. The report also hints at a paid storage tier, possibly offering around 50GB of space at an affordable monthly price. However, these details are still under development and may change before an official rollout.
The feature is currently under testing and is said to be released in the coming weeks. However, the feature is not confirmed to roll out yet.
