WhatsApp Develops Passkey Authentication to Link Devices Without QR Codes

WhatsApp is enhancing its security features by developing a new method to link devices to user accounts without relying on QR code scanning. According to information revealed in the Android beta version, the company is working on integrating Passkey technology, which uses biometric authentication like fingerprint or facial recognition, or the device's lock code, to verify identity during device linking. Currently, users must scan a QR code with their primary phone to connect additional devices such as computers or tablets to their WhatsApp account.

The upcoming feature will offer an alternative where users can choose to authenticate device linking via Passkey during the setup process. After confirming their identity through the security measures set on their main device, the connection will be completed. This initiative aligns with WhatsApp's broader efforts to expand Passkey usage across the app, aiming to reduce password dependency and strengthen account protection.

At this stage, the feature is still under development and not yet available to beta testers. WhatsApp has not announced an official release date, but the presence of the code in the app suggests ongoing testing to improve both security and user convenience in device management.