Passkey feature is being tested by WhatsApp to ensure the security of chat backups: Report

Meta’s messaging platform, WhatsApp, is reportedly enhancing user privacy with an innovative feature in its latest beta release. According to WABetaInfo, a tracker of WhatsApp features, the new update will introduce passkey technology to encrypt chat backups, providing a more secure and user-friendly alternative to traditional password protection. The Android version 2.24.18.13 WhatsApp beta is presently testing this feature.

Passkeys leverage biometric data, such as fingerprints or facial recognition, allowing users to secure their backups without the need to remember complex passwords or manage long encryption keys. This marks a significant shift from WhatsApp’s previous approach, where users could encrypt their backups using custom passwords or a 64-digit encryption key. Although these methods offered strong security, they also posed challenges in terms of password management and the risk of users being locked out if they forgot their passwords or lost their encryption keys.

The introduction of passkey encryption is intended to simplify the backup process while enhancing security. Users will be able to protect and access their backups using the same biometric authentication methods they already use to unlock their devices. This change not only simplifies backup management but also eliminates the need for users to recall passwords or handle complex encryption keys, making the process more streamlined and secure.

Although this feature is still in its beta testing phase, it is expected to be rolled out to all users in the near future, marking a significant advancement in WhatsApp’s efforts to bolster data security.

Additionally, WhatsApp is working on a new privacy feature related to contact synchronization across devices. Discovered in the latest WhatsApp beta for Android version 2.24.18.14, this upcoming feature will provide users with more control over how their contacts are managed. It will likely allow users to control contact syncing individually for each account, giving them the option to disable synchronization for secondary accounts while keeping it active for primary ones. This will be particularly beneficial for those who prefer to maintain separate contact lists for different purposes.

For users who choose not to enable automatic contact syncing, WhatsApp is expected to offer a manual sync option, allowing them to selectively sync specific contacts without sharing their entire address book across devices. Manually synced contacts will be available on all linked devices, providing users with greater flexibility and control over their personal data.

This contact synchronization feature is still under development and is expected to be included in a future update, further reinforcing WhatsApp’s commitment to enhancing user privacy and convenience.