The encrypted messaging app Signal is rolling out a new "secure backup" feature, empowering users to recover their message history in the event of a lost device.
This long-awaited addition addresses a key concern for the app’s privacy-focused user base, ensuring that critical conversations remain accessible even after hardware mishaps.
Initially available in a beta version for Android, the feature is slated to expand to iOS and Desktop platforms in the near future. Signal’s secure backups are safeguarded by end-to-end encryption, with automatic daily updates to keep data current. To activate the service, users generate a unique 64-character recovery key, which must be stored on a secondary device. Should the primary device be lost, this key enables full restoration of messages, providing a seamless recovery process.
However, the system comes with a critical caveat: losing the recovery key renders the backup inaccessible, emphasizing the importance of secure storage. This design choice reinforces Signal’s commitment to user privacy, ensuring that only the keyholder can retrieve their data.
The service offers free backups of messages and media from the past 45 days, catering to the needs of most users. For those requiring longer-term storage, Signal introduces a paid subscription plan, allowing access to an extended archive. This tiered approach balances accessibility with sustainability, aligning with the app’s mission to prioritize security without compromising on user experience.
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As of now, this innovation marks a significant step forward for Signal, enhancing its appeal as a trusted communication platform in an increasingly digital world. With the beta rollout underway, users can look forward to a more resilient messaging experience, backed by Signal’s unwavering dedication to privacy and data protection.
