WhatsApp will soon be simpler to access on the iPhone. A feature already available on Android phones is now coming to Apple phones.
The company revealed on April 24 that a new feature is on its way. They made the announcement in a post on X, stating:“passkeys are rolling out now on iOS…a more secure (and easier!) way to log back in with Face ID, Touch ID, or your passcode.”
passkeys are rolling out now on iOS 🔑 a more secure (and easier!) way to log back in with Face ID, Touch ID, or your passcode
here are some reasons you should set it up 👇
— WhatsApp (@WhatsApp) April 24, 2024
First, it says, “it’s a more secure way to login and lets us know it’s really you.” Then, it says, “traveling? no network? no problem… passkeys let you skip the SMS code.”
This is certainly a benefit since it avoids the SMS confirmation code, which can take a long time to receive. As WhatsApp points out, if there’s no service, you won’t get the code at all.
It’s also true that without a network connection, WhatsApp’s functionality is limited.
Passkeys, which you may know, utilize the iPhone’s biometrics like Face ID or Touch ID for logging in. You can already unlock the app using these features, but this new update enhances convenience significantly.
Passkeys function by saving an authentication credential on your device. This matches with one stored by the app or service you wish to use, like WhatsApp.
It’s important to know that not every iPhone has this feature yet. To activate it, start by opening the app and navigating to Settings, then to Account.
If the feature is available, you’ll see an option labeled “Passkeys.” If you don’t see it, you’ll need to wait. If it is there, just tap it.
Engadget pointed out that “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,” Alice Newton-Rex, WhatsApp’s head of product, said in a statement.
There’s more convenience now for Android users. Abner Li from 9to5Google has reported that the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro now offer an additional way to access WhatsApp instantly. Previously, these devices only supported unlocking WhatsApp via a fingerprint sensor or a PIN code.
Now, face unlock is also an option. Facial recognition, often seen as less secure except on iPhones, isn’t used for all features. However, on the Pixel 8 Pro, it’s now available for tap-to-pay and banking apps.
Now, this applies to WhatsApp too. If the camera doesn’t recognize your face, the app will ask for a fingerprint unlock after a few seconds. If it does recognize you, a light will circle the camera as it unlocks.
This is another way WhatsApp maintains a good balance between security and ease of use.
What we think?
I think the new passkeys feature for WhatsApp on iPhone will make logging in much easier and safer. It uses Face ID or Touch ID, so I don’t need to wait for an SMS code, especially when there’s no network.
It’s cool that the feature saves login details securely on the phone. Android users also get better access with facial recognition on the new Pixel 8, which seems handy for quick logins.
