WhatsApp, a part of the Meta family, is undergoing a significant change in its approach towards free storage for Android users on Google Drive. Previously, users enjoyed the privilege of storing their chat history, photos, and videos without any additional cost.
However, a shift in policy now requires users to make a choice between opting for a Google One membership or utilizing their WhatsApp data within the 15GB storage limit on Google Drive.
The announcement regarding these updates came from Google in a post shared in November, outlining that WhatsApp backups on Android would now occupy space in the user’s Google Account cloud storage.
This alteration started with WhatsApp Beta users in December 2023 and is scheduled to roll out to all WhatsApp users on Android in the early months of 2024.
To provide users with sufficient time to adapt to these changes, WhatsApp plans to notify them 30 days prior to the implementation. Users can access this information conveniently under WhatsApp Settings > Chats > Chat backup. The full deployment of these modifications is anticipated to reach all users throughout the development of 2024.
For those participating in the WhatsApp Beta app, a proactive message is already being circulated, stating, “Backups will start using your Google storage in the next few months.” While obtaining a Google One subscription emerges as a viable solution for users approaching or better the 15GB limit, it’s noteworthy that the company still facilitates data transfer between Android devices.
This transition marks a strategic shift in Meta’s approach to storage and data management within its ecosystem, urging users to consider their preferences and make informed decisions in light of these alterations. As WhatsApp users on Android ready for future changes, the company aims to streamline the transition process and ensure a seamless user experience in the evolving landscape of cloud storage.
