In a recent announcement by Google and WhatsApp, Android users will no longer enjoy the exemption of their WhatsApp backups from Google Drive storage limits. This significant change comes after five years of Android users being able to save their chat history, including images and videos, without it counting towards their storage limits on Google Drive. Unlike iOS users, Android users have been benefiting from this free ride since 2020. However, starting in December, WhatsApp beta users will experience the shift, and it will extend to all Android users in the first half of 2024.
WhatsApp will notify users 30 days ahead of time regarding this change. Users will receive a banner notification in their Settings menu under Chat Backup. Alongside this alteration, WhatsApp will also introduce an alternative option for Android users who prefer not to use their Google account for backups. The new feature, known as WhatsApp Chat Transfer, allows users to wirelessly transfer their chat history when switching to a new device. This direct transfer occurs between devices with Wi-Fi enabled, eliminating the need for a network connection.
Google emphasized that apart from the potential storage limits affecting cloud backups, nothing significant will change in the way WhatsApp operates. If users delete content within the app, it will automatically remove it from the cloud backup, ultimately saving space on Google Drive. Additionally, Google One subscriptions are recommended for users seeking to upgrade their storage capacity. Eligible users may also have access to limited, one-time promotions for Google One.
While this modification alters the circumstances for Android users, it is important to note that WhatsApp functions similarly on iOS devices. However, iOS users have a cloud storage limitation of only 5GB for non-paying users. This discrepancy has placed Android users at an advantage, with unprecedented access to unlimited storage for WhatsApp backups.
The impending loss of free storage privileges will undoubtedly impact Android users who heavily rely on WhatsApp for their communication needs. With the change in effect, users should carefully monitor their Google Drive storage and consider alternative options, such as the WhatsApp Chat Transfer functionality. WhatsApp’s decision, in conjunction with Google’s storage limits, highlights the need for users to assess their digital storage requirements and make informed choices to accommodate their data backup needs effectively.
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