Face ID and Touch ID Authentication Finally Available for Whatsapp Users on iOS
Last updated July 13, 2021
- WhatsApp users on iOS and Android can now use their fingerprints or facial recognition to authorize access to the app.
- Users need to update to the latest version (2.19.20) of the app to access it.
- The feature is also coming to Android users in the near future with WhatsApp reported being working on it.
If you are a WhatsApp user on iOS and have been wishing for Face ID or Touch ID authentication for the messaging app, now is the time to update. iOS users have finally received access to biometric authentication for WhatsApp in a new update. It adds an extra bit of security to keep your account protected from prying eyes.
Once you update to the latest version of the app, simply head to the new Setting in WhatsApp called Screen Lock. You can add either Face ID or Touch ID depending on your hardware. While the new feature does let you keep your messages protected, if anyone is able to break into your device your data will still be compromised.
WhatsApp has always lacked any form of authentication method on any platform and users were forced to rely on third-party services. While on Android, users could simply download an app locker, a similar solution was not available on iOS. However, the new update may not be too useful for users who are not too tech savvy. The authentication settings are hidden away deep in the settings, and unless users actively look for Face ID or Touch ID authentication, they will be unable to locate the new options.
There is no option of using a passcode to lock your app, and you will be forced to choose between having biometric authentication or no security measure at all. Recent reports suggested that WhatsApp is working on an Android version of the new authentication method as well. Fingerprint access should soon be available for users on Google’s platform in the coming weeks.
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