WhatsApp is adding a new way to access encrypted backups with passkey support. This means that even if you lose your device, you can still access your WhatsApp backup using methods like your fingerprint, face, or screen lock code from your previous device.
For years, WhatsApp didn’t have an encryption layer for chat backups. However, in 2021, Meta added a way for users to protect their backups with end-to-end encryption using a password or a 64-character encryption key.
The problem with both is that you have to remember the backup password or have the encryption key handy when restoring the backup. With Passkey, you don’t have to hunt for passwords or keys.
WhatsApp, which surpassed 3 billion active users in May, said the feature will be rolled out to users in the coming weeks and months, so it may be worth keeping an eye on when it becomes available.
You can enable encrypted backups and see if there is an option to use a passkey by going to (Settings) > (Chat) > (Chat Backup) > (End-to-End Encrypted Backup).
