A popular private chat app is bringing a highly requested feature to its iOS version.

After a delay, iOS users of the privacy-focused messaging app can finally use a key new feature.

To set up, go to Signal Settings, and choose Backups

Select Setup, then Enable Backups > Next

Note your recovery key

Verify the key and select a subscription

A positive step forward

Signal is a well-known secure messaging application, and adding this function to iOS devices may increase its popularity. Currently, the function is unavailable on desktop, and cross-platform transfer of encrypted message history is not supported. However, these features, along with an option for a downloadable backup, will be available soon.

WhatsApp, a primary competitor, has provided encrypted backups for some time. WhatsApp uses third-party cloud services to store backups, whereas Signal uses its own security-focused system, which accounts for the fee.

A worthwhile feature

Enhanced security often involves compromises in functionality, but this Signal update was much needed. Chat history is important to many users, and this addition could encourage more people to use a secure messaging app.

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