WhatsApp is adding a new layer of security to its backup system by enabling passkey protection on end-to-end encrypted chat backups. Until now, users who opted into encrypted backups needed to set a long password or memorize a 64-digit key. With the update, they’ll instead be able to use a device-based passkey—such as a fingerprint, Face ID or screen lock—to secure their backups. The change expands on WhatsApp’s earlier move to full backup encryption, and further reduces reliance on traditional passwords.
The new passkey option works across Android and iOS and is rolling out gradually. Once available, users can navigate to Settings → Chats → Chat Backup → End-to-End Encrypted Backup and select the passkey option. This means backups stored in the cloud—whether on Google Drive or iCloud—remain encrypted, and only someone with the device’s passkey experience (biometric or screen lock) can restore them. WhatsApp says this approach marries strong cryptography with practical usability.
The shift reflects a wider industry trend toward passwordless security and tighter control of user data. For WhatsApp users, the benefit is two-fold: fewer chances of forgetting or losing a long key, and a stronger safeguard against unauthorised access to archived chats. On the flip side, users should be aware that if they lose access to their device and their backups while relying on a passkey, recovery may become more challenging—there’s less “fallback password” safety net compared to older methods.
In summary, WhatsApp’s passkey-protected backup encryption strengthens an already secure offering, making it easier and safer for users to preserve their chat history with minimal friction. As this feature rolls out, it will likely become the recommended option for anyone serious about keeping chat data private and intact.
