WhatsApp has introduced a new passkey feature that allows users to access their encrypted backups using biometric or device-based authentication, such as fingerprints, facial recognition, or screen lock codes.
The feature, announced by Meta, simplifies the process of restoring chat histories by eliminating the need for passwords or 64-character encryption keys. It builds on WhatsApp’s end-to-end encryption system, first introduced for backups in 2021.
With the new update, users who lose their devices can restore their chat history using passkeys tied to their identity verification on previous devices. WhatsApp, which surpassed 3 billion active users in May, said the feature will roll out globally over the coming weeks and months.
Users can activate encrypted backups by navigating to Settings > Chats > Chat backup > End-to-end encrypted backup and checking for the passkey option once available.
