The new feature, announced by Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg, allows users to scan a QR code on their old phones with their new phones and transfer their data directly between devices. Data is encrypted in transit and does not depend on iCloud or Google Drive, which can save users time and storage space.
The new feature is especially useful for users who have large chat backups that exceed the free cloud storage limits provided by Apple or Google. It also gives users more control over their data and privacy, as they don’t need to upload their chats and media to third party servers. WhatsApp says that the data is only shared between the two devices and no one else can access it.
However, there are some limitations to the new feature as it only works between phones running the same operating system i.e. Android to Android or iOS to iOS. Users who want to switch from one platform to another will have to use a different method, which involves using a cable or an app provided by WhatsApp partners. WhatsApp has documentation for users who want to move from iPhone to Android or vice versa.
WhatsApp has not specified an exact date for when the new feature will be available to all users, but it is testing it in beta level on both Android and iOS. This feature can be accessed from the Settings and Chats menu and transfer the chat on the old device. The new feature is part of WhatsApp’s efforts to improve its experience and functionality for users as it faces competition from other messaging apps such as Signal and Telegram.
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