Google rolls out Android settings for WhatsApp backup management

Google began deploying a Google Play services update (version 26.23) that adds a dedicated option in Android Settings ▶ System ▶ Backup for managing WhatsApp chat and media backups. The new interface mirrors WhatsApp’s own backup page but centralises controls such as backup frequency, Wi‑Fi‑only transfers and data selection, reducing the need to dive into the messaging app. The feature does not change the underlying cloud‑storage model – backups still use Google Drive and are subject to its quota limits.

The same June system update also introduces additional Play Protect checks for unverified apps, a Find‑Hub configuration for remote device location, and support for importing and exporting passwords and passkeys through Google Password Manager. These changes aim to improve security and credential portability across Android devices, including phones, tablets, Wear OS, Android TV and PCs.