WhatsApp launched its passkey verification support on all iOS users, six months after it was first introduced on Android.
The passkey will officially eliminate the need for SMS one-time passcodes and will be replaced with facial recognition, biometrics, or PIN codes.
WhatsApp Rolls Out Passkey Support on iOS
The passkey verification update on iOS is now being released and will be available to all users in the coming weeks. Once the passkey is enabled, iOS users can log into their WhatsApp using this new verification method.
"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," WhatsApp's head of product, Alice Newton-Rex wrote in an emailed statement.
To create a passkey users can simply enable it on their WhatsApp settings under "Passkeys." Users will be asked to use TouchID, FaceID, or the PIN stored in Apple's passkey manager. The feature will be available on iPhone 8 or later models with iOS 16 or higher.
Passkey Ensures Security on Messaging Apps
Other companies such as X, Google, PayPal, and TikTok have started using passkey support to ensure their platform is secure from any security threats. Passkeys are known as an effective strategy to prevent unauthorized access.
In addition, it also adds a security layer as the passkeys will serve as a way to authenticate legitimate users. This security feature will make it harder for cybercriminals to access accounts as physical access must be secured first remotely.
WhatsApp initially introduced the feature to Android users after its beta testing. Meta is still actively improving its messaging app and has recently launched Meta AI on the platform.
Meta AI on WhatsApp allows users to ask questions right from the search feature at the top of conversations. As of writing, it is still expanding to other countries and might not be available to some.
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