Signal introduces secure cloud backup features to enhance chat saving and restoration.

Signal has launched a new opt-in feature that enables users to create end-to-end encrypted backups of their chats, ensuring they can restore messages even if their devices are lost or damaged. This secure backup option is currently available in the latest beta version for Android users, with plans to roll it out to iOS and desktop devices following the testing phase. Users who opt in can back up all text messages and the last 45 days’ worth of media for free. For those wishing to extend their media history beyond 45 days and include their entire message history, a paid subscription plan is offered at US$1.99 per month. Jim O’Leary, Signal’s VP of Engineering, explained that this is the first paid feature introduced by Signal, primarily due to the high costs associated with storing and transferring large amounts of data.

Once users enable secure backups through the Signal Settings menu, their chats will be automatically backed up daily, excluding messages set to disappear within 24 hours. A unique 64-character recovery key is generated on the device, which is essential for decrypting backups during restoration. Losing this key means permanent loss of access to the backup, as Signal cannot assist in recovery. In addition to this feature, Signal has previously introduced end-to-end encrypted synchronisation of messages across devices and implemented ‘screen security’ on Windows 11 to enhance user privacy. Furthermore, users can now opt for custom usernames to connect with others while keeping their phone numbers private. 

Categories: Secure Backups, Subscription Services, Privacy Features 

Tags: Signal, Opt-in, End-to-end Encryption, Backups, Media History, Subscription Plan, Recovery Key, Privacy, Synchronization, Usernames