What you should know
– Google announced passkeys as the default authentication method for personal accounts
– WhatsApp has added passkey support for Android users
– Passkeys offer an additional layer of security along with existing authentication methods
– The feature is currently available in the WhatsApp beta program and may be rolled out in stages for stable versions.
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Google recently announced that passkeys will be the default authentication method for its users on personal accounts. This is part of their effort to enhance security measures. Passkeys support is already available on several apps and websites, including WhatsApp, which will soon add compatibility for its users.
WhatsApp has been testing passkeys functionality with its beta users, and now it has officially announced its support for Android users. Users can now use their device’s screen lock method, such as face recognition, fingerprint, or device pin, to unlock their accounts. This adds an extra layer of security to the app, along with the existing optional two-step verification pin and fingerprint lock feature.
Although passkeys support has been made public, it is not yet available on the latest stable version of WhatsApp. It is only working in the latest beta version for those enrolled in the WhatsApp beta program. The signup process for passkeys is simple and quick, as it utilizes the screen lock method already used on the phone. The passkey created during the signup process is stored in Google’s Password Manager, allowing users to use it on other devices where they are signed in to their Google account.
It remains unclear whether an app update will be released for the stable version of WhatsApp or if the feature will be gradually rolled out via a server push. However, with the increasing emphasis on security, it is likely that passkeys support will be available to all WhatsApp users soon, offering a convenient and secure method of authentication.
