WhatsApp adds support for passkeys – Android users who use WhatsApp will soon be able to securely re-login to their accounts using their device PIN or biometric authentication. Before, users of WhatsApp had to enter a one-time password (OTP) and an optional six-digit PIN for two-factor authentication in order to access their accounts. Android users will now be able to use the built-in face or fingerprint recognition function on their phone to get back into their account with a passkey stored on their device thanks to the addition of passkey support.
WhatsApp announced support for passkeys on Android via X (previously known as Twitter), a week after Google said it would stop requiring passwords for all of its services and instead add support for passkeys on Android and the web. Users can still choose to log in by inputting their phone number and an OTP, and the current fingerprint lock option will still be available.
About passkeys?
A cryptographic key or password used in security protocols, such as Bluetooth pairing or wireless network connections, is commonly referred to as a “passkey”. A passkey is used in Bluetooth pairing to provide a secure connection between devices. A passkey, often known as a passphrase, is necessary for Wi-Fi networks to encrypt communication between devices and the router.
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Passkeys are used as authentication mechanisms in broader security contexts where software, systems, or encryption procedures demand them to ensure permitted access. A passkey may also refer to a physical token that generates one-time codes in some security systems. This type of token is utilized in two-factor authentication for added security. The phrase is adaptable and used with many technologies and authentication procedures to secure information and access.
“Passkey verification will make logging back into WhatsApp easier and more secure. We’re excited to launch this on WhatsApp and give users an added layer of security,” WhatsApp Head of Product Alice Newton-Rex previously said.
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How to create a passkey on WhatsApp for Android
WhatsApp adds support for passkeys and this is how to create a passkey in a few easy steps.
Open WhatsApp, go to the settings menu, and touch on Account > Passkeys > Create a passkey to enable passkeys on WhatsApp for Android. Then, after reading the popup message outlining how passkeys work, select Continue. If you want to generate a passkey for WhatsApp, a new Google Password Manager dialog will appear; click Continue. To enable logging in using your phone’s screen lock feature, use screen lock. The passkey generated by WhatsApp is now visible.
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Additionally, we were able to confirm that the WhatsApp beta for Android version 2.23.21.12 supports passkeys and seamless logins with biometric authentication. On their devices, the feature may not be available right away for those who are using the most recent version of WhatsApp from the stable channel.
