WhatsApp develops its own cloud backup service for iPhone as alternative to iCloud

WhatsApp is building a cloud backup feature for iPhone that will offer end-to-end encrypted storage and optional paid plans outside iCloud.

• A new option in WhatsApp's iOS beta lets users select a backup provider instead of relying solely on iCloud.
• The company is testing storage plans including a free 2GB tier and a paid 50GB plan for about $0.99 per month, with a 1TB plan in development.
• Backups via the new service will be end-to-end encrypted by default, while iCloud backups require manual activation for full encryption.
• The feature is expected to simplify data transfer between iPhone and Android devices; Meta has not announced a public release date.