WhatsApp is taking another major step toward simplifying privacy and improving data security. The Meta-owned messaging platform has announced passkey support for end-to-end encrypted backups, allowing users to restore their chat history using their biometrics — such as fingerprints or facial recognition — instead of relying on passwords or long encryption keys.
For years, WhatsApp users faced a trade-off between strong encryption and convenience. While the app introduced end-to-end encrypted backups in 2021, users needed to create a unique password or store a 64-character key to access them. Losing either meant permanently losing access to the backup. The new passkey system eliminates that risk by letting users use secure authentication methods already built into their devices.
“Passkeys make it easier and safer to restore your encrypted backups,” WhatsApp said in a statement. “You can now use your fingerprint, face, or device screen lock code — no need to remember long passwords.”
This feature is part of WhatsApp’s broader push to modernize security without complicating the user experience. It builds on the platform’s earlier efforts to protect messages, calls, and data through end-to-end encryption — a standard that has become central to its global user trust.
The rollout comes as WhatsApp continues to expand its privacy toolkit and deepen integration with device-level security features across Android and iOS. With over 3 billion active users, even small changes to how data is secured can have a massive global impact.
Passkey support is expected to reach all users gradually in the coming weeks and months. To check if it’s available, users can go to:
Settings → Chats → Chat backup → End-to-end encrypted backup and enable the option.
Once activated, restoring chat history will no longer depend on remembering a password — just a fingerprint, face scan, or device unlock.
