WhatsApp is making strides in enhancing security for iOS users with the introduction of passkey support. This passwordless authentication technology, designed to seamlessly log you in using biometrics, is set to arrive on WhatsApp for iOS. Following its successful implementation on WhatsApp for Android, iOS users can anticipate the arrival of this cutting-edge feature through a future update.
In a recent development, the feature tracker WABetaInfo uncovered a passkey-related menu in the latest WhatsApp beta for iOS 2.24.2.73. This discovery suggests that the much-anticipated passkey support will soon become a reality for iOS users. While Android users have already been enjoying the convenience of setting up passkeys for quick logins, iOS users can expect a similar experience with enhanced security.
A passkey, a hardware-backed authentication mechanism developed by the FIDO Alliance in collaboration with tech giants like Apple and Google, promises passwordless sign-ins authenticated with Touch ID or Face ID. This advanced security measure aims to mitigate the risks of phishing attacks. On Android, WhatsApp securely stores passkeys in Google’s password manager, and for iOS, it is expected to utilize Apple’s Keychain system.
Although the latest WhatsApp beta for iOS includes code for the new passkey menu, the functionality is not yet active. The feature is anticipated to roll out initially to beta testers via TestFlight before becoming available to all users on the stable version of the app.
It’s important to note that passkey support on iOS will be exclusive to devices running iOS 17. If you own an iPhone XR or a newer model and have updated to iOS 17, you can look forward to using passkeys in the near future. This innovative feature will enable you to log back into your WhatsApp account seamlessly using Face ID or Touch ID, adding an extra layer of security to your messaging experience. Stay tuned for this groundbreaking update, set to redefine security standards on WhatsApp for iOS!
