WhatsApp developers have introduced a faster method to move chat history from an old device to a new one by using a QR code. TechCrunch has reported this advancement, highlighting the improved transfer flow and the way it integrates with modern devices.
Experts emphasize that users switching to a new phone running the same operating system can transfer WhatsApp data over a local Wi‑Fi connection. The process relies on a direct, device‑to‑device transfer rather than cloud backups, offering a streamlined experience for people who want to keep their chats intact across devices.
There is no dependence on backing up data to a phone’s storage or to cloud services for this transfer. To complete the migration, both devices must be powered on and connected to the same Wi‑Fi network, ensuring a quick, private exchange that stays within the local network boundary.
To start the transfer, users should open WhatsApp on the old device, navigate to Settings, enter the Chats section, and choose the option to Forward chats. The next step involves scanning a QR code displayed on the new phone with the camera of the old device, which activates the secure transfer pathway and completes the migration process.
WhatsApp positions this method as a more secure option because the data remains encrypted on the devices themselves and the data exchange occurs exclusively between the two phones over a local network. This approach reduces exposure to external servers and third‑party services during the handover, aligning with user expectations for privacy and control over personal messages.
Historically, cross‑device chat transfers on WhatsApp involved cloud storage or other intermediary solutions, which could require additional steps or storage space. The new QR code method marks a shift toward on‑device processing, where sensitive information stays local to the user’s devices until the transfer is complete. This design is consistent with broader trends in messaging apps prioritizing rapid, private data migration while maintaining end‑to‑end encryption throughout the process.
The update also reflects ongoing conversations in the mobile messaging space about the most dependable ways to preserve chat histories when moving between devices. For users who rely on WhatsApp for personal or professional communication, the ability to migrate without a cloud intermediary can be particularly appealing, offering peace of mind and a smoother setup experience on the new device. In some cases, users who operate across families of devices or who upgrade phones frequently may find this feature especially convenient, reducing downtime and the risk of losing important conversations. The enhancement is part of a broader effort to simplify onboarding and improve continuity for conversations that matter, without compromising security or privacy.