WhatsApp is testing a new feature that uses QR codes for transferring chat history between devices, eliminating the need for Google Drive.
New Delhi,UPDATED: Jun 18, 2024 15:21 IST
WhatsApp is working on a bunch of new updates for the platform to enhance user experience. In this lineup of new developments, WhatsApp is reportedly working on a new chat transfer feature using QR codes that will significantly simplify the process of transferring chat history between devices, eliminating the need to use Google Drive altogether.
According to WABetaInfo, the new chat transfer functionality is included in the latest beta version, 2.24.9.19. This feature uses QR codes to facilitate the transfer of chat data directly from one device to another. When a user switches to a new phone, WhatsApp will display a QR code on the old device, which contains all the chat history and data. Scanning this QR code with the new device initiates the transfer of chat data seamlessly. This development is reportedly aimed at addressing one of the longstanding inconveniences faced by users, particularly those on Android, who have had to rely on Google Drive to back up and restore their conversations when switching phones.
The feature is also said to be more user-friendly compared to the previous approach that required users to manually back up their chat history to Google Drive and then restore it on the new device. While this process was generally straightforward, it still involved several steps and could be time-consuming, especially for users with extensive chat histories.
While the QR code-based transfer system is expected to streamline this process, there are still some uncertain details regarding its exact operation. For instance, 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 amount of data being moved.
When will the feature become available?
WABetaInfo notes that the beta version of the QR code chat transfer feature is available through the Google Play Store for those already enrolled in the beta program. However, the program is currently full, so new users may need to wait until the feature is rolled out more broadly. Also, there is no official timeline for when this functionality will be available in the public version of WhatsApp, but its presence in the beta stage suggests that it could be implemented in the near future.
As for availability, the QR code-based transfer method is likely to come for both Android and iOS users. It is speculated that WhatsApp is 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.
Published By:
Divya Bhati
Published On:
Jun 18, 2024
English (US) ·