New Feature Aims to Eliminate the Need for Google Drive in Chat History Transfers
In Short:
- WhatsApp is testing a QR code-based chat transfer feature.
- The new feature simplifies transferring chat history between devices.
- Available in beta version 2.24.9.19.
- Expected to streamline the process without using Google Drive.
- Aimed at enhancing user experience on both Android and iOS.
WhatsApp is rolling out a series of updates aimed at enhancing user experience, with one notable development being the introduction of a new chat transfer feature utilizing QR codes. This innovation is set to simplify the process of moving chat history between devices, removing the necessity for Google Drive altogether.
According to reports from WABetaInfo, this new chat transfer feature is part of the latest beta version, 2.24.9.19. It employs QR codes to directly facilitate the transfer of chat data from one device to another. When users switch to a new phone, WhatsApp will generate a QR code on the old device containing all the chat history and data. Scanning this QR code with the new device will seamlessly initiate the transfer process. This feature aims to address a common inconvenience faced by users, particularly those on Android, who have traditionally relied on Google Drive to back up and restore conversations when changing phones.
The QR code-based system is designed to be more user-friendly compared to the previous method, which required users to manually back up their chat history to Google Drive and then restore it on the new device. While this method was generally straightforward, it involved multiple steps and could be time-consuming, especially for users with extensive chat histories.
However, there are still some uncertainties about the exact operation of this new transfer system. It remains unclear whether both devices need to be logged into WhatsApp during the transfer or if the QR code also serves as a sign-in mechanism on the new device. Additionally, the duration of the transfer process may vary depending on the volume of data being moved.
As for its availability, WABetaInfo notes that the beta version of this feature can be accessed through the Google Play Store for those already enrolled in the beta program. However, the beta program is currently full, meaning new users may need to wait until the feature is rolled out more broadly. Although there is no official timeline for when this functionality will be available in the public version of WhatsApp, its presence in the beta stage indicates that it could be implemented soon.
The QR code-based transfer method is expected to be available for both Android and iOS users. WhatsApp is likely working on making this feature a universal solution for transferring chat history across different platforms. Currently, migrating chat history between iOS and Android devices requires accessing a separate section and using a physical cable, a process that is not compatible with older Android versions.