WhatsApp has introduced a faster way to transfer chat history from an old phone to a new one using a QR code. If users are switching to a new phone with the same operating system, they can transfer their WhatsApp data using the new QR code-based transfer method, which uses the local Wi-Fi connection.
For users to transfer their chat history using the new method, they will have to ensure that both phones are turned on and connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
To transfer WhatsApp chats from an old device to a new one, first open WhatsApp on the old device and go to Settings > Chats > Chat transfer. Users will be prompted to scan a QR code from the new phone to complete the transfer process after following these steps.
WhatsApp says that transferring data through the new QR code process is more secure than using unofficial third-party apps, which according to the instant messaging service, lack privacy practices. It is also more private than cloud services because the data is only shared between your two devices and is fully encrypted during the transfer process.
Previously, WhatsApp used cloud backups to move data between devices with the same operating system (either iOS or Android). The new method removes the need to back up chats on the cloud. However, it is still best to regularly backup your data.
Using this method, users can transfer large media files and attachments quickly without having to back up and restore their chat history. This is a convenient solution for files that were previously too large to keep.
Although WhatsApp supports iOS to Android and Android to iOS migration, both methods require more steps than simply scanning a QR code.
Recently, WhatsApp also introduced a multi-device feature, which allows users to use a single account on multiple devices, including phones.