Your Finger Is the Key: WhatsApp Rolls Out Cutting-Edge Passkey Backup Encryption

WhatsApp is rolling out passkey-encrypted backups for iOS and Android devices, enabling users to protect their chat history using device biometrics or screen lock codes. This innovative update replaces the older system that required users to remember cumbersome 64-digit encryption keys or passwords, making backup security both simpler and stronger.

With this feature, securing chat backups becomes as easy as a tap or glance, leveraging the device's built-in authentication methods. The same end-to-end encryption protecting personal chats now extends seamlessly to backups, ensuring privacy is maintained across devices and over time.

To enable this, users need to go to Settings > Chats > Chat backup > End-to-end encrypted backup and select the passkey option when it becomes available on their devices during the gradual global rollout expected in the coming weeks and months.

This development aligns WhatsApp with broader industry trends toward passwordless authentication, enhancing data security while reducing risks related to lost credentials or weak backup passwords. Given that many users carry years of precious conversations, photos, and voice notes on WhatsApp, this upgrade significantly boosts backup protection without compromising ease of use.

Key Highlights

Passkey backups use fingerprint, face recognition, or screen lock code for encryption.

Eliminates need to memorize or store complex passwords or 64-digit encryption keys.

Gradual global rollout for iOS and Android users started in late October 2025.

Enhances privacy by applying existing WhatsApp end-to-end encryption to backups.

Users can enable via Settings > Chats > Chat Backup > End-to-end Encrypted Backup.

Aligns with growing adoption of passwordless security standards in digital services.

Sources: GSMArena, Digital Trends, Republic World, HelpNet Security, TechCrunch