This means that even if you lose your phone or link a new device to your primary number, you will still have access to all your contacts stored in WhatsApp’s cloud storage.
The new feature, which is currently rolling out, lets you store contacts on any device, including WhatsApp for the web and Windows. You can also choose to sync contacts saved within WhatsApp to your phone. This is particularly useful for those who want to keep personal and business contacts separate or share their device with others.
To enable secure contact saving, WhatsApp has developed a new encrypted storage system called Identity Proof Linked Storage (IPLS). When users save a contact, the system generates an encryption key on the device.
Retrieval is based on the client authenticating its primary device identity. Additionally, the app is partnering with Cloudflare to sign any changes to the cryptographic properties of a user’s directory, ensuring that contacts saved in WhatsApp have not been edited by unauthorized parties.
The company has also announced plans to introduce usernames on WhatsApp, which will provide an additional layer of privacy by allowing users to message someone without sharing their phone number. This feature has been in development for some time and is expected to be available soon.