WhatsApp replaces traditional passwords with login with access keys on Android

WhatsApp announced the launch this Monday (16): Login with access keys for all users on the stable version of messenger for android. The new feature, which replaces two-factor authentication via SMS, has been tested by people registered in the platform’s beta program since the beginning of August.

As explained on the official profile of the messaging service on X (formerly Twitter), Passwordless login is a safer alternative and can be done using biometrics, facial recognition or fingerprint reading, or a pre-selected screen locking method. There is also the possibility of using the device’s security PIN.

Can Android users easily and securely log back in with password keys? Only your face, fingerprint or PIN unlocks your WhatsApp account pic.twitter.com/In3OaWKqhy

— WhatsApp (@WhatsApp) 16 October 2023

WhatsApp access keys — or toggle switchesEnglish — can be used when: create an in-app account on a new device. For example, if you have changed your mobile phone, after entering the phone number you will have the option to use the authentication method on your new smartphone.

Even with his release, Users can continue to use the existing procedure to authenticate their account on another device if they wish.. This includes entering the phone number, entering the password, entering the code sent to the mobile phone by the Meta service and confirming the activation.

When will it come to iOS?

Although it confirmed that the passkey sign-in feature is rolling out in the Android app, Meta did not reveal whether all messaging users on the Google system will immediately have access to the passkey function for account authentication. As with other new features, distribution is likely to occur gradually.

Therefore, you may have to wait a few more days to use the newly released security tool if it is not currently available on your phone. It is important to check if the software is up to date with the latest version available on the Play Store.

Another issue that the technology giant did not inform was whether it was possible to log in to WhatsApp for iOS with a password. Like this, It is unknown when the feature will reach iPhone.