July 16, 2026, 7:23 am | Read time: 4 minutes
WhatsApp’s cloud backup feature not only ensures that chats are never lost but also makes it easier to switch to a new smartphone. However, those who frequently send pictures and videos quickly increase the size of the backup file. The problem: WhatsApp backups use iCloud and Google Drive storage. That’s why the messenger is now working on an alternative–with its own free cloud storage.
WhatsApp Plans Its Own Backup Service
According to the WhatsApp blog “WABetaInfo,” the messenger is currently testing a backup alternative to iCloud in the beta version of the iOS app (version 26.28.10.16). Initial hints about the new cloud offering for Android emerged as early as April. The new feature seems to be in an advanced stage of development, as “WABetaInfo” has screenshots of it for both the Android and iOS versions.
In the current WhatsApp beta for iOS, the option “Choose Your Backup Provider” appears, offering two choices. Users can select between “WhatsApp” and “iCloud.” According to “WABetaInfo,” the latter will remain the default setting for now–those who do not wish to switch need not take any action.
Free Storage with WhatsApp Backup
WhatsApp could entice users to switch with a key advantage: free backup storage. At launch, 2 gigabytes will be available for backing up chats, documents, as well as photos and videos. So far, WhatsApp backups on iOS count against iCloud storage and on Android against Google Drive storage. iPhone users, in particular, can quickly fill the 5 GB of iCloud storage they receive for free from Apple with backup files.
At least for basic backup of chats, documents, and a few photos, the free WhatsApp storage could be a real alternative. However, backups can quickly swell to several gigabytes if they also include videos–especially in HD quality.
Additional Costs for More Storage
According to “WABetaInfo,” WhatsApp is therefore considering offering larger storage options–but for a fee. For 50 GB, 99 cents per month could be charged, similar to iCloud. A 1-terabyte option for heavy users is also under discussion.
For larger backups, WhatsApp is apparently exploring paid models. A plan with 50 gigabytes for around 99 cents per month and an offer with one terabyte of storage are mentioned.
Users can switch between WhatsApp and iCloud/Google Drive backups at any time. It is not yet clear whether the messenger will automatically delete obsolete backup files from iCloud after switching to the WhatsApp option. However, users can do this manually in iPhone settings > Account Name > “iCloud” > “Storage” > “WhatsApp Messenger” > “Delete Data from iCloud.”
How to Transfer WhatsApp Chats to a New Smartphone
Android Now Stores Local Files in Google Drive
Encryption and Existing Backups
Unlike iCloud, backups on WhatsApp servers are to be end-to-end encrypted by default. The messenger does offer this option for iCloud backups as well, but users must activate it manually. For users who are skeptical about storing their data on WhatsApp servers, the default encryption is intended to signal more security.
The app is supposed to directly suggest a passkey for securing the backup, allowing users to access it via Face ID. Alternative methods include a regular password and a 64-digit key.
Also of interest: Android backup will soon also store documents
Simplified Switching Between iOS and Android
The proprietary backup solution could later also facilitate restorations between Android and iOS. Currently, there is no way to transfer backups from one platform to the other, as iCloud and Google Drive do not communicate with each other. Whether the shared backup infrastructure will actually be part of the final feature is still open.
The current WhatsApp beta for iOS is only available to registered testers via Apple’s TestFlight app. There is no official timeline. Until release, storage sizes, prices, and the range of functions may still change.
“Smart Move”
“WhatsApp has always had a huge problem: The messenger cannot directly monetize its enormous user base. To generate revenue, detours such as ads in WhatsApp status and paid business tools are necessary. Because no one I know pays 2.49 euros monthly for a WhatsApp Plus subscription.
The introduction of its own cloud backup is therefore a really smart move. At first, the feature seems like a freebie that you might as well take to save storage on iCloud and Google Drive. But the WhatsApp backup will only grow and, even with conservative management, quickly exceed the 2 GB limit. Everything beyond that costs money monthly and is thus real income for Meta.”