WhatsApp, the messaging platform owned by Meta, has been working on a tool to allow users to transfer their chat history between Android devices without having to use Google Drive. Now, some users have reported that the local chat migration option has appeared in the latest beta version of WhatsApp for Android v2.23.9.19.
What is local chat migration?
The local chat migration tool will allow users to transfer their WhatsApp chat history between Android devices without having to rely on a Google Drive backup. Instead, the data transfer process will take place over a local peer-to-peer connection, possibly using Wi-Fi Direct.
Advantages of local chat migration
The local chat migration tool will be of great help for users who live in areas with poor or unstable internet connections. Also, it will allow for much faster data transfer than backing up and restoring chat history via Google Drive. On the other hand, users who use devices that are not compatible with Google applications will have an easier time migrating WhatsApp chats from one mobile to another.
Another advantage of local chat migration is that it is not limited to data transfer between Android devices. Users may also be able to transfer their chat history from Android to iOS and vice versa, although this information has not been confirmed.
How local chat migration works
When the local chat migration option is selected in WhatsApp, the user will be asked to scan a QR code from their new device to start the migration process. After scanning the QR code, a peer-to-peer connection between the two devices will be initiated and the data transfer will begin.
Availability of local chat migration tool
WhatsApp local chat migration tool is still in testing phase and is not available for all users. Some lucky users have reported that the option has appeared in the latest beta version of WhatsApp for Android v2.23.9.19.
Users who do not see the local chat migration option in the WhatsApp settings will have to wait for the tool to be released to a wider audience or to reach the stable version of the application.
The WhatsApp local chat migration tool is an important step for the messaging platform. Not only will it improve the user experience by enabling faster and more reliable transfer of chat history, but it will also reduce dependency on Google Drive.
