What happened?
Last month, WhatsApp users were shocked by an announcement where WhatsApp publicised their plans to share user data with Facebook. This was a clause in the updated WhatsApp privacy policy and terms of service – if users did not accept these changes, they would not be able to continue using the app after 8 February 2021. This privacy update has since been pushed back to 15 February 2021, in a bid to ease user confusion in the interim.
READ: Whatsapp’s Privacy is Giving Telegram and Signal the Shot They Deserve
What came next?
Such news naturally invited vicious backlash around the world, with many of the two billion WhatsApp user base deciding to switch their loyalties to Telegram or Signal, two other popular messaging apps. Indeed, Telegram has already seen a spike in 25 million new users from 10 to 12 January 2021, with Telegram seeing 7.5 million downloads between 6 and 10 January 2021.
And if you’re intending to switch apps as well, you can now export your WhatsApp chat history to Telegram!
How can this be done?
iOs users can open the ‘Contact Info’ or ‘Group Info’ section in the respective WhatsApp chat, tap on the ‘Export Chat’ button, and select Telegram in the ‘Share’ menu. Android users can also open the respective WhatsApp chat, click ‘More’, ‘Export Chat’, and then choose Telegram in the ‘Share’ menu. Yes, it’s that simple; even the original timestamps will be ported over!
Telegram vs Signal – which to pick?
And if you’re wondering what’s the difference between Telegram and Signal, here’s a breakdown. Signal is the new kid on the block, and is endorsed by the likes of Elon Musk and Twitter’s Jack Dorsey. The biggest lure of Signal is that it’s end-to-end encrypted, and stores all messages on your device. Telegram, on the other hand, isn’t end-to-end encrypted, and stores messages in the cloud.
Similar to WhatsApp, both apps have stickers and emojis. Groups are easily set up, with Telegram users enjoying additional features such as secret messages that disappear after a certain time, and plenty of adorable sticker packs that are available for download. Both apps allow you to send gifs that are sourced from a central library.
Signal is owned and developed by a non-profit organisation who places heavy emphasis on security; Telegram, on the other hand, is run by a for-profit corporation. If you’re looking for privacy, Signal seems like the clear winner!
Will you be making the switch from WhatsApp to either Signal or Telegram? Let us know!
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