Signal’s Encrypted iOS Backups Are Here
▼ Summary
– Signal is launching secure backups on iOS to save and restore messages when a phone is lost or broken.
– The free backup option allows storing up to 100MB of text messages and 45 days of media like photos and videos.
– A paid plan for $1.99 per month supports unlimited text messages and up to 100GB of media beyond the 45-day limit.
– Secure backups use end-to-end encryption and require a 64-character recovery key for access, which Signal cannot recover if lost.
– Signal plans to extend secure backups to its desktop app and enable encrypted message history transfers across Android, iOS, and desktop.
Signal has officially rolled out its highly anticipated encrypted backup feature for iOS users, providing a secure method to safeguard and restore personal conversations and media files. This development addresses a critical need for individuals who risk losing their entire messaging history when switching or losing a device. The system employs end-to-end encryption to protect all stored data, ensuring that only the account holder can access their information through a unique recovery key.
The platform offers two distinct backup tiers to accommodate different user requirements. A complimentary version permits subscribers to save up to 100MB of text messages alongside photos, videos, GIFs, and files from the most recent 45-day period. For individuals with more extensive storage needs, a premium subscription priced at $1.99 monthly unlocks unlimited text message preservation and expands media capacity to 100GB, removing the 45-day restriction on older content.
Activating the backup functionality involves navigating to the Settings section within the application, selecting the Backups option, and proceeding through the setup workflow. During this process, the application generates a 64-character recovery code that must be carefully recorded. Signal explicitly states that this code cannot be recovered through customer support if misplaced, emphasizing the importance of secure storage. After verifying the recovery key, users can select their preferred backup plan and initiate the encryption process.
This iOS announcement follows the successful implementation of encrypted backups on Android devices last September. The company has revealed broader ambitions for cross-platform functionality, with intentions to expand secure backups to desktop applications. Future development roadmaps indicate capabilities for transferring complete encrypted messaging histories across Android, iOS, and desktop environments, creating a seamless privacy-focused ecosystem for users transitioning between devices.
(Source: The Verge)
