WhatsApp has unveiled a new and efficient way to transfer chat history from an old phone to a new one using a QR code-based system. The company’s latest feature allows users to migrate their WhatsApp data seamlessly when switching to a new device operating on the same system, be it iOS or Android.
WhatsApp’s QR Code Data Migration: Simplifying Phone Switches
To initiate the transfer, both devices should be powered on and connected to the same Wi-Fi network. On the old phone, users need to navigate to WhatsApp’s Settings, then select Chats and Chat Transfer. This will generate a unique QR code, which can be scanned from the new phone to complete the transfer process.
Compared to existing third-party solutions,WhatsApp’s local data transfer method provides enhanced security measures. The encrypted data is exclusively shared 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. This new local transfer method marks the company’s first step in offering a streamlined solution for such migrations.
WhatsApp already supports the migration between iOS and Android devices; however, the existing methods are slightly more complex compared to the simplicity of the new QR code scanning process.
In addition to the data transfer feature, WhatsApp offers a multi-device functionality, enabling users to sync messages across various devices using a single phone number. The company recently expanded this feature to support multiple phones, providing even greater convenience and flexibility for its users.