WhatsApp, the popular messaging app owned by Meta, has introduced a new feature for iOS users that allows them to verify their accounts using passkeys. Passkeys are a secure and convenient way to sign in to WhatsApp without requesting a six-digit code via SMS.
According to WABetaInfo, a website that tracks WhatsApp updates, the latest beta version of WhatsApp for iOS (24.2.10.73) shows a preview of the passkey setup screen. This indicates that the feature is under development and will be rolled out to all iOS users soon. WhatsApp has not announced an official release date for the feature yet.
Passkeys use biometric authentication such as Face ID or Touch ID to let users access their WhatsApp accounts on their devices. Users can also choose to use a PIN as a backup option. Passkeys eliminate the need to enter a six-digit code every time users want to sign in to WhatsApp on a new device or after reinstalling the app. They also prevent hackers from hijacking users’ accounts by intercepting the SMS codes.
WhatsApp first launched passkey support for Android users in October 2023, after testing it in beta for several months. The feature received positive feedback from Android users, who appreciated the enhanced security and convenience of passkeys. WhatsApp is now following suit with iOS users, who have been waiting for the feature for a long time.
Passkeys are part of a new technology called WebAuthn, which aims to replace passwords with more secure and user-friendly methods of authentication. WebAuthn is supported by major browsers and platforms, and is endorsed by the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) and the FIDO Alliance. Several other apps and services have also adopted passkeys, such as TikTok, PayPal, X, and Amazon.
To use passkeys on WhatsApp, users will need to update the app to the latest version, and follow these steps:
– Open WhatsApp on your iPhone.
– Tap on your profile picture in the top-right corner.
– Go to Settings > Passkeys.
– Tap on Create Passkeys.
– Follow the on-screen instructions.
Users can enable or disable passkeys anytime in the settings. If they want to sign in to a device where passkeys are not available, they will have to request a six-digit code as usual.
Passkey verification is one of the many new features that WhatsApp has introduced in recent months. The app has also improved its shopping experience by allowing users to book appointments, reserve seats, and make purchases within the app. WhatsApp has also launched its broadcast channels feature globally, which lets users follow verified accounts and receive updates from them. Additionally, WhatsApp has released its native app for Mac, which offers a better performance and integration than the web version.
WhatsApp is constantly working to improve its app and offer new features to its users. With passkey support, WhatsApp is joining the movement to make the internet more secure and convenient for everyone.