- WhatsApp announced biometric authentication for web and desktop clients.
- That way, you can use your fingerprint or face to connect new devices.
WhatsApp has seen a frosty reception after trying to force Facebook integration into its user base earlier this year. Even so, the company is pushing a notable security upgrade on paper as it enables biometric authentication for WhatsApp desktop and web.
The company announced that it will perform biometric authentication (face or fingerprint) when devices are linked to your account using a QR code.
“To link WhatsApp web or desktop to your WhatsApp account, it will now be you You have been asked to unlock your face or fingerprint on your phone before scanning a QR code from the phone to connect your device. “Read an excerpt from a press release that was sent to Android Authority.
In other words, there is no way to just use biometric authentication instead of scanning a code. However, the Facebook team says this move will reduce the chances of a roommate or colleague linking a device to your account without your knowledge.
Follow the instructions below to get started:
- Tap Settings icon> WhatsApp Web
- Click the plus icon and follow the instructions if your phone supports biometric authentication
- Select the “Keep me signed in” option on your computer’s QR code page if you want to stay signed in
- Scan the QR code displayed on your computer with your phone camera
The company also states that the biometric authentication takes place on your smartphone and that WhatsApp cannot access this biometric information at all.
WhatsApp says this new feature and a redesign of WhatsApp Web for Phones will be made available to users in the “coming weeks”. Hence, you may have to wait a while before you can see it on your devices.