WhatsApp Tests Encrypted Cloud Chat Backups with 2GB Free Storage on iOS and Android

By: Harsh Vardhan

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Updated on: 14-Jul-2026 05:00 PM

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​WhatsApp is testing a new encrypted cloud backup feature for both Android and iOS users. This feature allows users to store their chat backups on WhatsApp's own cloud storage, separate from Google Drive or iCloud. WhatsApp aims to improve chat security and give users more control over their data.

Key Highlights

• WhatsApp testing encrypted cloud chat backups for Android and iOS users.
• Feature offers 2GB free storage with paid 50GB plan at $0.99 per month.
• Backups are end-to-end encrypted by default with multiple security options.

WhatsApp Cloud Backup Details

Currently, Android users back up chats to Google Drive, while iOS users use iCloud. The new feature introduces WhatsApp's own cloud storage as an alternative. Users will receive 2GB of free storage for chat backups. WhatsApp is also considering paid plans, with a 50GB option reportedly costing $0.99 per month.

All backups stored on WhatsApp's cloud will be end-to-end encrypted by default. Users can secure their backups with a passkey, a password, or a 64-digit encryption key. This level of security is designed to protect user data from unauthorized access.

Encryption and User Control

End-to-end encryption will be enabled automatically for WhatsApp cloud backups. Users cannot disable encryption unless they switch back to Google Drive or iCloud. Currently, Google Drive and iCloud do not offer end-to-end encryption for WhatsApp backups by default.

WhatsApp's new backup feature is still in development. It was recently discovered in beta version 26.28.10.16 for iOS. The company has not announced a public release date. Once the feature is ready, it will first become available to beta testers before a wider rollout.

Future Availability

WhatsApp continues to work on this encrypted cloud backup solution for both Android and iOS platforms. The feature aims to provide users with more secure and flexible options for storing their chat history. Users can expect further updates as development progresses.