WhatsApp beta for Android 2.25.24.15: what's new?

WhatsApp has released a new Android update through the Google Play Beta Program, bringing the version up to 2.25.24.15.
What's new in this update? WhatsApp is rolling out a feature that allows users to encrypt their backups using a passkey, and it's available to some beta testers!

In the article about the WhatsApp beta for Android 2.24.18.13 update, we announced that a passkey feature for end-to-end encrypted backups was under development. This feature will give users a seamless way to secure their backup data with biometric authentication, reducing reliance on passwords while maintaining the same strong encryption standards. Users will be able to restore their backups quickly by verifying their identity with a fingerprint, face scan, or device PIN, ensuring both convenience and robust protection against unauthorized access. It appears that WhatsApp is now testing this feature with the public, as some beta testers have started seeing signs of the new functionality appear in their app. Following the release of the latest WhatsApp beta for Android 2.25.24.15 update, which is available on the Google Play Store, we discovered that WhatsApp is rolling out a feature that allows users to encrypt their backups using a passkey!

As you can see from the attached screenshot, some beta testers can explore a new option to strengthen the protection of their backup data through a passkey. A passkey represents an additional security layer that makes it easier for users to access their encrypted files while preventing unauthorized access. Unlike traditional passwords, which need to be memorized or stored manually, a passkey is securely saved in the user's password manager. This ensures that the passkey is always accessible on trusted devices linked to the same account.

After installing the WhatsApp beta for Android 2.23.20.4 update, some users could experiment with the ability to log in using a passkey, simplifying account access with strong security. However, it's important to note that the passkey created for encrypted backups is the same one used to access the app. This means a single passkey successfully secures both your app login and your backup protection. This simplifies security while still keeping your data safe.

Previously, users could already encrypt their WhatsApp backups with a custom password or a 64-digit encryption key. However, this method required them to remember the password or store it somewhere safe. Several users have also reported losing permanent access to their encrypted backups after forgetting the password. With passkeys, this issue is significantly reduced, as users no longer need to create or remember complex passwords. Instead, authentication is handled automatically through Android's APIs and linked password managers. To confirm their identity, users can simply rely on built-in verification methods such as fingerprint recognition, facial authentication, or their device's app lock system. This makes the process of restoring backups both faster and more secure, while reducing the chances of being locked out due to forgotten credentials.

It's worth noting that even if users switch to a new device, the transition remains seamless. As long as the same password manager is used, the passkey will remain accessible, enabling them to restore their encrypted backups without any extra steps. This removes the need to manually enter long or complex passwords during the setup process, simplifying the experience significantly. Users can rely on familiar authentication methods, such as fingerprints, face recognition, or device PINs, to verify their identity quickly. At the same time, the strong encryption protecting their backups is preserved across devices, ensuring consistent security.

The integration of passkeys in WhatsApp empowers users to safeguard their conversations and media with state-of-the-art protection while removing one of the biggest challenges of password-based security: human error. By relying on biometric factors and trusted password managers, WhatsApp is making encrypted backups more accessible and reliable than ever. For users who value both security and convenience, this feature represents a significant improvement in how sensitive data is protected in the messaging app.

A feature that allows users to encrypt their backups using a passkey is available to some beta testers who install the latest updates of WhatsApp beta for Android from the Google Play Store, and it is rolling out to even more people over the coming weeks.

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