Signal is testing a new plaintext chat export feature in Beta 8.7

Signal is preparing to roll out version 8.7 in beta, introducing a new plaintext export feature that allows users to save their messaging data in a more accessible, human-readable format.

The update was previewed by Greyson Parrelli, a member of Signal’s development team, in a recent announcement inviting users to join the beta testing program. According to Parrelli, the upcoming feature enables users to export their entire Signal data locally to disk using a “plaintext JSON-ified” format derived from the app’s newer backup system. The export option will be accessible through the app’s settings under Chats > Export chat history, making it straightforward for users to generate archives of their conversations.

This addition represents a notable shift in how Signal handles user data portability. Historically, Signal backups have been encrypted and stored in formats that prioritize security but are difficult to inspect without restoring them within the app. The new export feature appears designed to balance transparency and usability, offering a mostly human-readable structure while still leveraging the underlying backup architecture introduced in recent updates.

Signal is a widely used open-source messaging platform known for its strong end-to-end encryption and privacy-focused design. Operated by the non-profit Signal Foundation, the app serves millions of users globally, including journalists, activists, and everyday users seeking secure communication.

While Signal has not provided extensive technical documentation about the export format, the reference to JSON suggests that exported data may be easier to parse, analyze, or migrate compared to previous backup methods. However, users should remain mindful that exporting sensitive conversations into a readable format could introduce new risks if the files are not securely stored.

Users interested in testing the feature can join the beta program and review the full list of code changes published on Signal’s GitHub repository.

As always, users should handle exported data carefully, store files in encrypted drives, restrict access permissions, and delete archives when no longer needed to minimize exposure.