WhatsApp Introduces Support For Passkeys On Android: How To Enable
Meta-owned WhatsApp is also rolling out support for passkeys on Android. This way, WhatsApp users can log back into their accounts using biometric information or their device PIN.
Passkeys are all the rage right now. From Microsoft to Google to Apple, tech giants are increasingly falling back on passkeys as a more secure and reliable alternative to traditional passwords. Now, Meta-owned WhatsApp is also rolling out support for passkeys on Android. This way, WhatsApp users can log back into their accounts using biometric information or their device PIN.
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Why is WhatsApp allowing passkeys?
Until now, WhatsApp has required a one-time password (OTP) and an optional six-digit PIN to enable two-factor authentication on the app. With passkeys, Android users may use their smartphone's in-built fingerprint or face scanner to log back into their accounts.
Android users can easily and securely log back in with passkeys ? only your face, finger print, or pin unlocks your WhatsApp account pic.twitter.com/In3OaWKqhy
¡ª WhatsApp (@WhatsApp) October 16, 2023
With passkeys available, users can continue to log in via the existing fingerprint lock option. In addition, to set up an account, users can continue to use their phone number and an OTP.
Also read: Google Makes Passkeys Default: Here's How To Go Passwordless
Passkeys are pitched as a more secure and robust alternative to passwords. To create passkeys on WhatsApp for Android, follow the steps below.
How to enable passkeys on WhatsApp for Android
- Open WhatsApp for Android and open Settings
- Tap on Account >> Passkeys >> Create a passkey
- A pop-up message now inform you how passkeys work then tap Continue
- Now, a Google Password Manager pop-up pop-up will ask if you wish to create a passkey for WhatsApp
- Tap Continue and Use screen lock - with this, you can now log in to WhatsApp via the phone screen lock
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Support for passkeys was enabled on WhatsApp beta for Android version 2.23.21.12, Gadgets360 confirmed. If you're on the latest stable version, you might have to wait slightly longer for the feature to show up on your Android smartphone.
What do you think about the adoption of passkeys? Let us know in the comments below. Click here for more how-to guides. For more in the world of technology and science, keep reading Indiatimes.com.
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