WhatsApp has introduced a new feature that simplifies the process of transferring chat history from one phone to another. The latest update brings a QR code-based system, allowing users to seamlessly migrate their WhatsApp data when switching to a new device operating on the same system, whether it’s iOS or Android.
To initiate the transfer, both the old and new phones need to be powered on and connected to the same Wi-Fi network. On the old phone, users can access WhatsApp’s Settings, select Chats, and then choose Chat Transfer. This will generate a unique QR code that can be scanned from the new phone to complete the transfer process.
Compared to existing third-party solutions, WhatsApp’s local data transfer method offers enhanced security measures. The encrypted data is shared exclusively between the two devices over the local network, ensuring a safe and private migration experience. Previously, WhatsApp relied on cloud backups to facilitate data transfer between devices running the same operating system. However, this new local transfer method marks the company’s first step in providing a streamlined solution for such migrations.
Although WhatsApp already supports migration between iOS and Android devices, the existing methods can be slightly more complex compared to the simplicity of the new QR code scanning process.
In addition to the data transfer feature, WhatsApp also offers multi-device functionality, enabling users to sync messages across multiple devices using a single phone number. Recently, the company expanded this feature to support multiple phones, providing even greater convenience and flexibility for its users.
With the introduction of the QR code-based chat history transfer and its ongoing efforts to improve cross-device functionality, WhatsApp continues to enhance the user experience and ensure smooth transitions when switching to new devices.
