WhatsApp has simplified the login procedure, making it quicker and more straightforward for Android users. Under Meta‘s umbrella, the chat service has introduced support for passkey logins on Android, eliminating the need for one-time passwords (OTPs) from two-factor authentication during login. This new login technology, known as passkeys, is engineered to withstand phishing attacks, password breaches, and other security risks that often threaten its predecessors.
Android users can easily and securely log back in with passkeys 🔑 only your face, finger print, or pin unlocks your WhatsApp account pic.twitter.com/In3OaWKqhy
— WhatsApp (@WhatsApp) October 16, 2023
Understanding the passkey technology
Passkeys are created from cryptographic pairs comprising a public key and a private key, the latter being stored on the user’s device. Unlike traditional login methods, services embracing passkeys don’t have access to this private key. Moreover, the private key isn’t something that can be written down or shared. Without this private key, unauthorised access to someone’s account is effectively barred. With WhatsApp adopting passkey support, users can now utilise their device’s authentication process, allowing for identity verification through facial recognition, fingerprint, or PIN.
Growing adoption of passkey technology
The adoption of passkey technology is steadily gaining traction, although many apps are yet to incorporate this feature. PayPal was ahead of the curve, introducing passkey logins for Android in March, followed by TikTok, which embraced the technology in July. More recently, 1Password extended passkey support to all its desktop and iOS users following a three-month testing phase of this login solution.
