WhatsApp, owned by Meta, is introducing a new passwordless passkey feature for Android users, eliminating the need for SMS two-factor authentication. This enhanced security option enables WhatsApp users to unlock their accounts using their device’s face, fingerprint, or pin security. This move aligns with Google’s recent implementation of passkeys, enhancing the security of WhatsApp’s more than 2 billion users. The support for passkeys is currently rolling out for Android users, with no official word yet on when iOS users will receive this feature.

This change marks a positive step in the direction of enhanced security, making it easier for users to protect their accounts without the need to remember complex passwords that could be susceptible to data breaches or phishing attacks. While it won’t provide absolute protection from all digital threats, it simplifies and improves the security process for a wide range of users.

The adoption of such features, which eliminate the need for traditional passwords, reflects an industry-wide trend in enhancing user security and convenience while reducing vulnerabilities associated with password-based authentication.