WhatsApp is reportedly developing a new feature for iOS that will enable users to transfer their chat history between iPhones without the need for iCloud. This functionality is currently being tested in the beta version of WhatsApp for iOS, and is available to users participating in the TestFlight beta testing program.
According to a report from WhatsApp features tracker WABetaInfo, iPhone users will soon be able to migrate their chat history, including media files, by simply scanning a QR code presented on a new iPhone. The feature, referred to as “Transfer Chats to iPhone,” can be found under WhatsApp Settings > Chats.
This new capability is being introduced through the TestFlight beta program with the iOS beta version 23.9.0.72, and is gradually becoming accessible to select beta testers, with plans for broader rollout in the coming weeks.
In addition to the chat migration feature, WhatsApp is also testing automatic playback for GIFs shared within conversations. Currently, users must tap on GIFs to view their animations. With this impending feature, GIFs will automatically play the first time they appear in a chat. However, WABetaInfo notes that the GIF will only animate once; after the initial playback, users will need to tap the media file to view it again.
The automatic GIF playback feature is also available to a selected group of beta testers. It is expected that this feature will be expanded to include more beta users in the upcoming days, with potential enhancements anticipated prior to its official release.
