WhatsApp introduces Passkeys to unlock your encrypted backups

WhatsApp is rolling out a new update with version 2.24.18.13 for Android through the Google Play Beta Program. This WhatsApp beta update brings a fresh and useful feature called passkeys for encrypted backups.

The new passkey feature makes accessing your encrypted backups easier and more secure. It will use biometric methods, such as fingerprints or facial recognition, to unlock your backups. This means you won’t need to remember or type in complex passwords anymore.

Currently, WhatsApp lets you protect your backups with either a custom password or a long 64-digit encryption key. While these processes are very secure, they can be hard to remember. That’s why WhatsApp is introducing the new passkey feature, which uses easy-to-use biometric authentication.

Instead of dealing with and remembering lengthy passwords, you’ll be able to quickly and securely access your backups using your biometric data. This makes managing your backups simpler and reduces the chances of being locked out due to forgotten passwords.

Notably, the passkey itself will be securely stored in a password manager with an extra layer of convenience and security. WhatsApp passkeys feature for backups is currently in development and will be available in a future update. Stay tuned for more information.