WhatsApp iCloud backup could soon become optional for iPhone users. According to a new report, WhatsApp is developing its own cloud backup service that will allow users to save chats without relying on Apple’s iCloud. The feature is currently under development and has not yet been released to beta testers, but it could solve one of the biggest problems faced by iPhone users who frequently run out of iCloud storage.
The upcoming feature was reportedly spotted in the latest WhatsApp beta for iOS. If introduced, users will be able to choose between Apple’s iCloud and WhatsApp’s own cloud servers for storing chat backups. The move follows a similar feature that WhatsApp is already working on for Android users.
WhatsApp iCloud Backup Alternative May Offer Better Privacy
According to the leak, WhatsApp will continue to keep iCloud as the default backup option, but users will have the flexibility to switch to WhatsApp’s own cloud storage whenever they want through the Chat Backup settings.
One of the biggest advantages of the new system is improved security. Unlike iCloud backups, which require users to manually enable end to end encryption, WhatsApp’s cloud backups are expected to be encrypted by default.
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Users may be able to secure their backups using:
- Passkey
- Password
- 64 digit encryption key
WhatsApp reportedly says only the user will have access to the encrypted backup, ensuring better privacy for chats and media files.
The new backup system could also make it easier to restore chats across different operating systems in the future, although this feature has not been officially confirmed.
Free 2GB Storage Expected With Paid Plans For Larger Backups
The report claims WhatsApp may provide 2GB of free cloud storage for every user. Those who need more space for chat history, photos, and videos could later subscribe to premium storage plans.
Expected storage options include:
- 2GB free cloud storage
- 50GB plan for around USD 0.99 (about Rs. 95) per month
- 1TB storage plan for users with large backups
Currently, Apple offers only 5GB of free iCloud storage, which is shared across device backups, photos, files, and apps. Large WhatsApp backups often consume this storage quickly, forcing users to either buy extra iCloud space or delete files.
At the moment, WhatsApp has not announced an official release date for the feature. Since it is still under development, the final storage limits, pricing, and rollout schedule could change before launch. If released, the new WhatsApp iCloud backup alternative could give iPhone users greater flexibility, improved privacy, and an easier way to manage their chat backups without depending entirely on iCloud.
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