Signal will finally let you transfer your encrypted chat history to new linked devices
Signal has announced new functionality in its upcoming beta releases, allowing users to transfer messages and media when linking their primary Signal device to a new desktop or iPad. This feature offers the choice to carry over chats and the last 45 days of media, or to start fresh with only new messages.
The transfer process is end-to-end encrypted, ensuring privacy. It involves creating a compressed, encrypted archive of your Signal data, which is then sent to the new device via Signal's servers. Despite handling the transfer, the servers cannot access the message content due to the encryption.
With the introduction of a cross-platform archive format, Signal is also exploring additional tools for message transfer to new devices or restoration in case of device loss or damage. Users can begin testing this feature soon, with a wider rollout expected in the coming weeks.
- Instant Messenger
- Free • Open Source
Related news
External links
- A Synchronized Start for Linked DevicesSignal • Official source
- Signal Messenger Has a New Way to Link DevicesHow-To Geek
- Signal's new sync feature will finally transfer your existing messages to desktopAndroid Police
Comments
When I suggested / asked about this years ago, they basically told me I was nuts and didn't understand what the point of their platform was. So either their POV changed or the point of their platform. Either way it's nice to hear since that was my biggest deal breaker with Signal for all these years.
I'm so glad to see Signal finally tackle this issue! Despite being an activity that happens for most on an infrequent basis, having the ability to transfer data natively in the app, and in a way that is seamless, makes upgrading or trading phones so much easier than how it used to be in the past. Very cool feature!