WhatsApp has rolled out a new way to keep chat backups safe, and this time, you won’t need to remember a single password.
The messaging platform now allows users to secure and access their backups using passkeys. This lets users secure their chat history using fingerprint, facial recognition, or screen lock code.
Replacing the old method that required WhatsApp users to store a 64-character encryption key or recall a backup password, the passkey makes security become as effortless as unlocking your phone, a simple tap or glance is all it takes to protect or restore your chat history.
WhatsApp says users can now restore their chats seamlessly even after losing a device, without having to hunt for passwords or manually enter encryption keys. The system relies on biometric or device-level authentication, giving users a faster way to protect their data.
“Many of us carry years of precious memories in our WhatsApp chats – photos, heartfelt voice notes, and important conversations,” the company said. “That’s why protecting them if you ever lose your phone or need to transfer to a new device is so important.”
The passkey upgrade expands on the WhatsApp end-to-end encrypted backups introduced in 2021, reiterating the company’s focus on a password-free app.
It also builds on the platform’s earlier rollout of passkeys for account logins, making it clear that WhatsApp wants to make strong security simpler for everyone.
WhatsApp, which now serves over 3 billion users worldwide, said the new feature will roll out gradually over the next few weeks and months on both Android and iOS..
To activate the feature once available, users can open Settings > Chats > Chat Backup > End-to-End Encrypted Backup, then choose to secure their backups using a passkey.
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