WhatsApp could soon let iPhone users back up chats without iCloud

WhatsApp is reportedly in the process of creating a cloud storage solution tailored for iPhone users, allowing them to back up their chat histories without relying solely on Apple's iCloud. This development indicates that WhatsApp is working on its own backup system, a significant shift from the current method where users depend on iCloud for data storage and restoration when changing or resetting devices. According to insights from WABetaInfo, the new cloud backup feature is still in the works, with code references found in the latest beta version of the app. Once implemented, it is expected that users will find this backup option in WhatsApp's Chat Backup settings, enabling them to switch storage locations conveniently within the app. However, iCloud may continue to serve as the default backup option for users. The anticipated WhatsApp Cloud backup feature is said to offer users up to 2GB of free storage. For those requiring more space, a subscription option may be available at approximately $0.99 per month for 50GB of storage, which aligns closely with Apple’s iCloud+ pricing. Furthermore, there is speculation about a higher-capacity 1TB storage plan for users with extensive data needs, although Meta has yet to confirm this. If WhatsApp rolls out this cloud storage feature, it is expected to include automatic end-to-end encryption for all backed-up data, ensuring that user privacy remains intact. This is particularly noteworthy as iCloud backups do not universally include end-to-end encryption unless users opt for Apple's Advanced Data Protection feature. In addition to the cloud backup capability, WhatsApp may introduce enhanced security measures such as biometric authentication or device PINs to safeguard backed-up chats. Interestingly, WhatsApp was not always free; it initially charged about $1 annually before eliminating that fee in 2016. As it looks ahead to 2026, WhatsApp has already introduced a ‘Plus’ subscription plan, starting at Rs 79 per month in India. Should the cloud service launch, it might be bundled with WhatsApp Plus, providing subscribers with added storage for chat backups as part of their subscription benefits.