Signal working on feature that will allow users to transfer chats to a new Android device

 

Signal is set to roll out a new feature that will help Android users transfer all their chats to a new device through WiFi. WhatsApp already has a feature that lets users move their chats when they get a new phone. Now, according to an online report, Signal is testing this feature called Transfer Account in beta version 5.5.0. The new feature is also said to give end-to-end encryption while the chat transfer is taking place. Signal users who have access to the latest beta program can find the Transfer Accounts feature in Settings. Signal’s iOS version allows users to wirelessly transfer all their chats from an old iPhone to a new iPhone.

TestingCatalog first reported the development and cited the description in the Signal’s changelog that stated, "Your next upgrade deserves an upgrade. Quickly and securely transfer your Signal information to a brand-new Android phone. Use the end-to-end encrypted migration feature to move your account and messages from an old device to a new device over a private local Wi-Fi Direct connection."

The report also notes that the entire process of transferring chats will be end-to-end encrypted and users can transfer chats to any device. However, they can only operate their account from one. The end-to-end encryption will make sure that the transfer process and the backup are secure.

-- To use the Transfer Account feature, users should download Signal app on the new device.

-- Go to Settings and select Chats.

-- Tap on Transfer or restore account.

Select Transfer on Android device when prompted.

-- Tap on Continue.

Users should note that the feature will only work over a WiFi connection, and so they should keep both devices in close proximity for the transfer to take place seamlessly. Since the Transfer Account feature is currently available in the current beta version, both devices should have that version. As of now, it is unclear as to when the company will widely roll out the feature for all SIgnal users.

As of now, Signal users can locally take a chat backup by following the given steps:

-- Open Signal app > go to Settings > tap on Chats and Media

-- Select Chat backups.

--Press on Turn On for backups.

--Select A Folder For Backup option from Choose Folder.

-- Select an existing folder or create a new folder.

-- Tap on Use This Folder and give permissions.

-- To remember the passphrase of your backup, note it down somewhere.

-- Select Enable backups from the notification or disclaimer box and select Create a backup