iCloud

Signal is introducing a cloud backup feature called "Secure Backups," currently in beta for Android users, which allows for daily backups of chat histories. Users will receive 45 days of complimentary backups, after which a subscription fee of [openai_gpt model="gpt-4o-mini" prompt="Summarize the content and extract only the fact described in the text bellow. The summary shall NOT include a title, introduction and conclusion. Text: Signal is set to enhance user experience with the introduction of a cloud backup feature, addressing a long-standing concern for those who have faced the challenge of losing chat histories when switching devices. This new functionality, currently available in beta for Android users, promises to streamline the process of transferring conversations, which has often been cumbersome and fraught with complications. Signal is finally fixing its biggest headache For many Signal users, the transition to a new phone has often meant bidding farewell to cherished conversations unless they meticulously created local backups and navigated a convoluted transfer process. However, a recent announcement on the Signal blog reveals a significant shift in this narrative. The newly introduced "Secure Backups" feature allows users to opt-in for daily backups of their conversations, securely stored to ensure peace of mind. Initially, users will enjoy 45 days of complimentary message backups, a welcome relief for those seeking short-term security. To maintain access to their entire chat history indefinitely, users will need to subscribe for a modest fee of .99 per month. Restoring data will require a 64-character recovery key, which users must safeguard diligently, as losing this key means Signal cannot assist in recovering messages. Does this put Signal on more even footing with its rivals? This development addresses a critical vulnerability that has plagued Signal for years. In contrast, competitors like WhatsApp have long offered end-to-end encrypted backups, facilitating a seamless transition to new devices. WhatsApp's approach leverages third-party services such as Google Drive and iCloud for storage, while Signal, adhering to its privacy-first philosophy, is constructing its own backup system. This commitment to privacy explains the necessity of the subscription fee, as server space incurs costs. As one user aptly noted, “The proposed pricing plan is also very reasonable given that many of us probably have gigabytes worth of Signal data.” A small price to pay for peace of mind Many users agree that this update is long overdue. The previous local backup method deterred recommendations of Signal, particularly among less tech-savvy individuals. The new backup system effectively resolves this significant drawback. While some may hesitate at the .99 monthly subscription—especially when competitors offer free backups—many view it as a fair price for a solution that does not depend on third-party cloud services. Concerns about the 64-character recovery key are valid; users are advised to store it securely, perhaps in a password manager. However, the ability to upgrade devices without enduring a lengthy data transfer process is a compelling incentive. This feature is particularly beneficial for those who value Signal's commitment to privacy but have previously struggled with its rigid device migration policies. Ultimately, this enhancement positions Signal as a more practical and user-friendly messaging option. " max_tokens="3500" temperature="0.7" top_p="1.0" best_of="1" presence_penalty="0.1" frequency_penalty="frequency_penalty"].99 per month is required for indefinite access to chat history. Restoring data will require a 64-character recovery key, which must be securely stored by the user. This new feature addresses a long-standing issue of losing chat histories when switching devices and positions Signal more competitively against rivals like WhatsApp, which offers free end-to-end encrypted backups through third-party services.