WhatsApp is developing its own cloud backup service for iPhone users, offering an alternative to iCloud. This new feature, currently in development and not yet available to TestFlight users, will allow users to choose between iCloud and WhatsApp's native cloud storage for their chat backups. The service promises 2GB of free storage, with potential paid plans extending up to 1TB.

A significant enhancement is the default end-to-end encryption for WhatsApp's own backup system. While end-to-end encryption is optional for iCloud backups and requires manual activation, it will be mandatory and non-negotiable for WhatsApp's service. Users can opt for a passkey, a regular password, or a 64-digit encryption key to secure their backups, ensuring that neither WhatsApp nor Meta can access the encrypted data.

This development signals WhatsApp's move towards greater control over user data and security. The company is also reportedly working on a similar alternative to Google Drive backups for Android users, suggesting a platform-wide initiative. While an official release date remains undisclosed, the parallel development for both iOS and Android indicates that an announcement could be forthcoming.