Passkeys seem to be becoming more common across different services, and WhatsApp seems to be joining the trend.
Creating a secure password, following the rules of capital letters, numbers, special characters isn’t easy, and frankly, it’s no fun. If you feel the same way, “passkeys” might be for you.
Passkeys combine security and user-friendliness
According to WABetaInfo, WhatsApp may soon allow users to use passkeys when logging into their accounts. These passkeys will be stored in Google Password Manager, at least that’s what it looks like based on the Android 2.23.17.5 beta update.
Choosing Passkeys offers a higher level of security than traditional passwords. Traditional passwords can be vulnerable to hacking and can be used to gain unauthorized access to your profile and data. Passkeys function like unique codes, phrases, or digital keys used to lock secure systems. For example, you can use your fingerprint or your face. These are also items that are difficult to copy. With this WhatsApp update, security provides a serious increase.
Moreover, passkeys are not only more secure, but also more user-friendly than traditional passwords. These passkeys will be securely stored in Google Password Manager. Thus, there will be no need for memorization. Switching to a passkey to log into your WhatsApp account provides exceptional convenience, especially when managing different accounts or using multiple devices.
Passkey trend is expanding
Passkeys were introduced in iOS 16 in 2022, and Google adopted them soon after. Since then, various services such as Best Buy, eBay, and PayPal have started using passkeys as a verification method. Even social media platforms have joined this trend.
An exact launch date for WhatsApp’s official passkey support is yet to be determined. But given the current beta status, the rollout is likely to happen in the near future. This messaging application under the umbrella of Meta has recently introduced various updates such as screen sharing.