WhatsApp Tests In-House Cloud Backup Provider for Default End-to-End Encrypted Backups

WhatsApp is advancing its privacy-first strategy by developing a proprietary cloud backup service with mandatory end-to-end encryption (E2EE), aiming to eliminate reliance on third-party storage platforms like Google Drive and Apple iCloud.

WhatsApp Moves Toward First-Party Encrypted Backups

WhatsApp is actively building an independent cloud backup infrastructure designed to host user chat histories within its own ecosystem.

Unlike current backup mechanisms that depend on external providers, the new system will store encrypted data directly on WhatsApp-managed servers.

A key security feature is the implementation of default end-to-end encryption for all backups. This ensures that only users can access their stored messages, preventing unauthorized access even from WhatsApp itself.

By internalizing backup storage, the platform enhances control over user data while reducing exposure to third-party risks.

This move reflects a broader shift in secure messaging platforms toward minimizing external dependencies and strengthening privacy guarantees.

To further secure cloud backups, WhatsApp is integrating passkey-based authentication. This modern approach replaces traditional passwords and complex encryption keys with device-bound credentials.

Users will authenticate backup access using biometric methods such as fingerprint scanning or facial recognition.

For example, when restoring a chat backup on a new device, users can simply verify their identity via biometrics, while the underlying cryptographic operations are handled securely by the device.

Passkeys are stored within trusted password managers and synchronized across authorized devices. This significantly reduces attack vectors such as phishing, credential stuffing, and brute-force attempts.

However, WhatsApp will continue supporting legacy methods, including password-based encryption and 64-digit keys, for users who prefer traditional options.

Modern messaging backups often include large volumes of multimedia content, quickly exhausting cloud storage quotas.

Currently, Android users share Google Drive space across multiple services, creating limitations for WhatsApp backups.

The new first-party backup service is expected to introduce dedicated storage tiers tailored specifically for messaging data.

Proposed features include:

• A free base tier offering up to 2 GB of storage.
• A potential 50 GB premium plan priced around $0.99.
• Possible exclusive benefits for future WhatsApp Plus subscribers.
• Continued support for third-party cloud backups for flexibility.

This approach not only alleviates storage constraints but also provides a more predictable and scalable backup solution.

Development Status and Expected Rollout

According to WABetaInfo, the feature is currently under development and not yet available to the public.

WhatsApp engineers are focusing on ensuring compatibility with existing encryption frameworks and user settings.

The rollout will likely follow a phased approach, beginning with internal testing and progressing to beta releases.

Security audits and performance validation will play a critical role before broader deployment.

Pricing models, storage limits, and subscription structures remain subject to change based on user feedback and testing outcomes.

WhatsApp’s initiative highlights a growing trend toward vertically integrated, privacy-centric ecosystems.

By combining encrypted storage with seamless authentication and dedicated infrastructure, the platform aims to deliver stronger security assurances and improved user experience.

This shift underscores the increasing importance of data sovereignty, encrypted storage, and streamlined management in modern communication platforms.

Follow us on Google News , LinkedIn and X to Get More Instant Updates. Set Cyberpress as a Preferred Source in Google

The post WhatsApp Tests In-House Cloud Backup Provider for Default End-to-End Encrypted Backups appeared first on Cyber Security News.