This week, Facebook began testing a secure storage feature that makes it easier to access your Messenger chat history if you lose your device or want to restore your chat history to a new phone. End-to-end encrypted conversations are currently stored on your device. With secure storage, you can choose to restore your messages with two end-to-end encrypted options. One method is to create a PIN or generate a code. You can also choose to use third-party cloud services, such as Google Drive, to restore your chat history. Sara Su, Meta’s director of product management for Messenger Trust, wrote in a blog post (opens in new tab) that this feature “will be the default way to protect your end-to-end encrypted chat history on Messenger”. This experimental secure storage is available on Android phones and iOS devices. However, the feature isn’t yet available on the Messenger desktop app or website, nor is it available in chats that aren’t end-to-end encrypted. You do not need to take any action if you are a member of the test group. This will also apply when the feature becomes available to everyone in 2023.
(Image: Meta) In addition to secure storage, Meta is rolling out updates to Messenger’s end-to-end encrypted features. Messenger’s end-to-end encryption is currently optional, which means you’ll have to choose to enable it. The service is now testing its default end-to-end encrypted chats with some users. Messenger is also experimenting with syncing deleted messages across your devices and verifying the authenticity of your web code when accessing the platform’s desktop website. It is also testing the ability to unsend messages and bring end-to-end encrypted chat features to group chats in other countries as well. Meta also plans to discontinue the disappearing feature while retaining the disappearing message feature for end-to-end encrypted chats. The company will also begin testing end-to-end encryption in Instagram DMs. It launched last year, although it was only available as an option setting. Meta introduced the feature in Ukraine and Russia last February. The new test will be available to everyone in more countries.
