After two months of testing, WhatsApp is rolling out Passkeys for everyone to provide a more secure way to sign in to a new device.

Passkeys replace traditional passwords with unique cryptographic key pairs that ensure only you can log in. The key is stored on your device, eliminating the need for 2FA or verification via SMS or email. Passkeys protect users from password reuse and phishing attempts.

WhatsApp beta testers have been able to work with the new function since the beginning of August. Now WhatsApp on X has announced that the feature will be rolled out to everyone.

The function replaces the SMS that is sent once when you install WhatsApp on a new phone. The app allows you to authenticate using your fingerprint, face, PIN code or a swipe pattern. The cryptographic key is automatically saved in Google Password Manager.

Thanks to this password-free system, you can save time when installing WhatsApp on a new device. Is this your first time using passkeys? We must congratulate WhatsApp for showing in a few clear steps what the new security means. If you don’t want to use passkeys, you can still use the traditional login method.

Nothing changes for those who use a secret vault in WhatsApp to lock a chat conversation. Your fingerprint (or other designated secure method) remains the only way to read these secret chat messages.

Passkeys are currently being rolled out worldwide. It may take a few days for the new security feature to become visible to you.