WhatsApp Cloud Backups may offer iPhone users encrypted storage alternatives to iCloud, reducing dependence on Apple’s limited free backup space.

WhatsApp is reportedly developing WhatsApp cloud backups for iPhone users, allowing chat histories to be stored on the company’s own servers instead of Apple’s iCloud. The upcoming feature is expected to provide 2GB of free storage, default end-to-end encryption, and greater control over backup management. Still under development, the service has not yet reached beta testing, but could become a major alternative for users managing limited cloud storage.

WhatsApp Expands Backup Options Beyond iCloud

According to reports, WhatsApp beta for iOS version 26.28.10.16 revealed references to a dedicated backup service through TestFlight. The feature may allow users to select between iCloud and WhatsApp’s backup platform while configuring chat backups. iCloud is expected to remain the default option, while switching between services could be available anytime.

Key details about the upcoming backup service include:

  • 2GB free storage for WhatsApp chat backups

  • End-to-end encryption is enabled by default always

  • Option to use passkeys or passwords

  • Available choice between iCloud and WhatsApp storage

  • Potential paid plans for larger backup requirements

Encryption and Storage Flexibility Drive Adoption

WhatsApp’s cloud backup alternative could address concerns around limited free storage on Apple devices. Apple currently provides 5GB of iCloud storage shared across photos, files, applications, and device backups. Large WhatsApp conversations containing media files can quickly consume available space.

The new WhatsApp backup provider is expected to improve privacy by making encrypted backups mandatory. Unlike iCloud, where users must manually enable encrypted WhatsApp backups, the company’s service would reportedly protect stored chats automatically. Neither WhatsApp nor Meta would have access to decrypt user backups.

The company is also exploring similar WhatsApp cloud backups for Android users as an alternative to Google Drive. Reports suggest that additional paid storage options, including larger capacity plans, may be introduced in the future, although pricing details remain uncertain.

Thus, Business Fortune is of the view that WhatsApp’s cloud backup expansion could reshape how users manage secure digital storage.

FAQs

What are WhatsApp cloud backups?

They are backups of your chats and media stored on WhatsApp’s servers rather than on an external cloud service.

Will WhatsApp backups replace iCloud completely?

No. iCloud is expected to remain available as an option.

How much free storage may WhatsApp provide?

The service is expected to include 2GB of free storage.

Are WhatsApp cloud backups encrypted?

Yes. Encryption is expected to be enabled by default.

When will the feature launch?

WhatsApp has not announced an official release date yet.