Meta Builds Encrypted iCloud Backup Alternative Directly Into WhatsApp Beta

WhatsApp is moving toward giving iPhone users a first-party cloud backup option that bypasses Apple's iCloud, with code for the feature now appearing in the latest iOS beta. According to MacRumors, the feature was spotted in version 26.28.10.16 of the WhatsApp beta for iOS, allowing users to choose their preferred backup destination from within the app's chat backup settings. While iCloud will remain the default, the new system marks the first time WhatsApp has offered an independent storage path for iPhone backups.

MacRumorsWhatsApp Developing First-Party Cloud Backup Option for iPhone, Offering iCloud Alternative

"the company is also testing it on iOS."

TechJuiceWhatsApp’s Encrypted Cloud Backup Service Reaches iOS Beta

The shift gives users more control over where their conversation data lives, a move that TechJuice noted was first spotted on Android back in April. ShiftDelete.Net reported that the system will provide 2GB of free storage and enforce mandatory end-to-end encryption, replacing the need for iCloud space altogether. Absolutegeeks described the rollout as a steady expansion of encrypted cloud backup testing, now reaching the iOS platform after an earlier Android trial.

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ShiftDelete.NetWhatsApp Develops Its Own Cloud Backup System for iPhoneabsolutegeeksWhatsApp expands encrypted cloud backup testing to iOS users

9to5Toys added that references found in the latest TestFlight build confirm Meta is actively building an alternative to iCloud backups, though the feature remains in testing. For users who exceed Apple's free iCloud tier, the new option could eliminate a recurring subscription expense. Tech-ish.com summarized the offering as "2GB free and an alternative to Apple's iCloud storage."

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tech-ish.comWhatsApp is building its own cloud for backups, and iPhone users are next9to5ToysWhatsApp is building its own iCloud alternative for chat backups

There is no word yet on when the feature will leave beta or whether the free storage tier will expand. But with backups listed as a chooseable destination in the app's settings, WhatsApp appears to be laying the groundwork for a fully independent cloud infrastructure that competes directly with Apple's ecosystem.