WhatsApp is introducing a new feature that allows users to log in to their accounts using the biometric authentication on their smartphones. This new feature, called Passkey, allows users to create a login credential that eliminates the need for a password. Users can securely log in to apps and services using the facial recognition or fingerprint scanner on their device.
The Passkey feature was spotted by feature tracker, WABetaInfo, in the WhatsApp beta for Android 2.23.20.4. The feature is currently being rolled out to a limited number of beta testers. However, not all users who updated to the latest beta release will have access to this feature. Gadgets 360 was unable to access the feature on two different Android smartphones enrolled in the beta program.
The new Passkeys feature on WhatsApp
Photo Credit: WABetaInfo
The Passkey feature allows users to sign in safely to WhatsApp and potentially other devices. This technology is not new, as Google already offers fingerprint-based biometric authentication for passkeys as an alternative to passwords for signing in to new devices. Passkeys are securely stored on the user’s device and used when biometric authentication is provided.
The screenshot shared by WABetaInfo also reveals that WhatsApp will store the passkey in the device’s password manager, which is typically the device’s default password store managed by Google with autofill support. The feature is expected to be made available on iOS as well, where it is likely to be stored in the iOS Keychain.
It is currently unclear whether WhatsApp will support storing passkeys in third-party apps such as Bitwarden, 1Password, or Dashlane. More details about how this feature works will be revealed as it is rolled out to more beta users. Ultimately, this passkey support is expected to be available on all smartphones in the stable channel in the future.
Unique Perspective: The introduction of Passkey support in WhatsApp’s beta for Android is a significant step towards providing users with a more secure and convenient login experience. By utilizing biometric authentication methods such as facial recognition or fingerprint scanning, users can now access their accounts without the hassle of remembering and entering passwords. This not only enhances security but also simplifies the login process, making it more user-friendly. As the use of passkeys continues to gain popularity, it will be interesting to see if WhatsApp expands support for storing passkeys in third-party password management apps, providing users with even more flexibility and control over their login credentials.
