Passkeys will soon be supported by WhatsApp on iOS: Why it is important

Soon, WhatsApp will follow in the paths of PayPal, Uber, and TikTok by jumping on the passkey bandwagon. Passkeys for iOS are being beta tested by the platform, enabling iPhone users to verify their accounts without requiring the standard 6-digit OTP code. Passkeys represent an innovative authentication method that rejects passwords or codes in favor of biometric or facial recognition technology.

Why are passkeys better to codes and what do they mean?

A popular security feature that many websites and apps are using is passkeys. Basically, these are digital credentials created for every account that allow you to log in without a password (or, in WhatsApp’s case, an OTP).

There are various reasons why passkeys are preferred over codes. They are quicker and more handy in the first place because you don’t have to wait to manually enter a code or wait for it to be sent to your phone or email. Since they cannot be intercepted or stolen, they are also more secure. Third, since you don’t have to give anyone your phone number or email address, they are more private.

How can I use WhatsApp passkeys?

Passkeys were first made available to Android users by WhatsApp last year, and the company is currently working to provide the feature to iPhone users in a later release. A website that keeps track of WhatsApp updates, WABetaInfo, claims that the app is working on adding a new section where users can set their own passkeys.

You can use your Face ID, Touch ID, or device passcode to access your WhatsApp account on any device once you’ve set up your passkey. A six-digit code will no longer be required for account verification.

Please be aware that the appearance of this feature on your device may take some time as it is presently under beta testing.

What more has WhatsApp updated?

For some time now, WhatsApp has been working to improve its verification procedure. For example, starting in November 2024, WhatsApp has offered email verification as an alternative for SMS verification for users to log in. This means that a verification link rather than a code will be sent to you if you provide your email address.

Additionally, WhatsApp is working on a feature that will allow users to share and create usernames in place of phone numbers. Finding and interacting with other people will be simpler as a result, and none of your personal information will be disclosed.