Users will still be able to access all of their contacts stored in WhatsApp’s safe cloud storage thanks to this improvement, even if they misplace their phone or connect a new device to their primary number.
In the past, WhatsApp managed connections exclusively by using users’ phone contact books. Only local data would be saved on the user’s device when a new contact messaged them. With the option to sync contacts to their mobile devices, the soon-to-be functionality will let users save contacts that are accessible on any device, including Windows and online versions of WhatsApp.
After allowing users to access two WhatsApp accounts on a single device last year, this update gives users the option to have distinct contact lists for their personal and professional lives.
By enabling users to keep their contact details secret, it also accommodates people who share smartphones with others.
In order to provide safe contact storage, WhatsApp created a new encrypted storage system called Identity Proof Linked Storage (IPLS), which generates an encryption key on the user’s device. By signing any modifications made to the user’s directory, the app also works with Cloudflare to ensure the accuracy of the contact information.
To give an additional degree of anonymity, WhatsApp is also working on allowing users to save contacts by username. Similar to capabilities provided by competitors like Signal and Telegram, this implies that users can communicate without disclosing their phone numbers.
With this new feature, WhatsApp hopes to improve user convenience and privacy while reaffirming its dedication to changing in the highly competitive messaging market.
