WhatsApp is rolling out a new update through the Google Play Beta Program, bringing the version up to 2.23.20.4.
What’s new in this update? WhatsApp is releasing a passkey feature for account verification, and it is available to a limited number of beta testers!
| Common questions | Answers |
|---|---|
| Name of the feature? | Passkey |
| Status? | Rolling out |
| Compatibility? | WhatsApp beta for Android 2.23.20.4 is marked as a compatible update. |
| I’ve installed this update but I don’t have this feature. Why? | This feature is available to a limited number of beta testers, and it will be released to more users over the coming weeks. |
| Thanks: | Kingcyrious, for testing and reporting! |
| Previous news? | WhatsApp beta for Android 2.23.20.3: what’s new? WhatsApp is rolling out a new icon for easier identification of community group chats with improved navigation! |
| WABetaInfo Channel on WhatsApp: | Invite link |
PASSKEY
In the article about the WhatsApp beta for Android 2.23.17.5 update, we announced that WhatsApp was exploring new ways to help us verify our accounts in those situations where users experience a problem while logging into WhatsApp. This way, WhatsApp aimed to provide users with a more secure experience when accessing their accounts by implementing innovative solutions that enhance both security and convenience. After installing the latest WhatsApp beta for Android 2.23.20.4 update, which is available on the Google Play Store, a limited number of beta testers may be able to experiment with passkey support today!
As you can see in this screenshot, the passkey feature is a simple way to sign in safely: it is a brief combination of numbers or characters used to confirm your identity and it makes sure that only authorized devices can be verified. It is mainly used when you experience issues when logging into your WhatsApp account. With this feature, you can use your biometric information, such as your fingerprint, face, or even screen lock, to verify your identity. To discover if this feature is already available for your WhatsApp account, open WhatsApp Settings > Account. In this section, a new entry point to configure your passkey may be available after installing the latest update.
The passkey is always stored in a password manager safely, for example, Google Password Manager. It adds an extra layer of protection to allow users to sign into their accounts easily and safely. In addition, since a passkey is always stored securely in a compatible password manager, it allows users easy access while keeping protections in place to prevent unauthorized access. It’s worth noting that users are always in control over their passkey as they can be easily revoked within the same screen.
The passkey feature for account verification is rolling out to a limited number of beta testers who have installed the latest update of WhatsApp beta for Android from the Google Play Store, and it will be available to more users over the coming weeks.
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