WhatsApp has been adding new features recently, such as the ability to use the same account on four devices and saving disappearing messages. They are also said to be working on a new feature that will make it easier for Android users to switch chats between devices and remove the dependency on Google Drive.
Currently, WhatsApp’s Android users can backup their chats and media to Google Drive. However, WhatsApp is developing a new chat transfer feature that will not rely on Google Drive. WhatsApp is currently testing this feature for some beta testers with WhatsApp beta for Android 2.23.9.19 update available on the Google Play Store. This feature will allow users to move their chat history to a new Android device by scanning a QR code and following the instructions to retrieve all their chat history and data, including media.
The new feature will offer a fast and easy migration experience as it eliminates the need for manual backup of the chat history to Google Drive, which can take a long time. The migration is automatic and does not require users to go through the backup and restore process.
The new feature is currently under testing and only select beta testers can test it. However, WhatsApp will release the feature for all Android devices in future updates of the app. Additionally, WhatsApp is testing a new “side-by-side” feature for some Android tablet users, which allows users to split their screen into two parts: one for the chat list and one for the current chat. This feature is optional and can be turned off anytime.