The popular messaging service WhatsApp has just been updated for iOS users today, and it comes with the long-awaited biometric authentication. This feature will allow users to lock and unlock the app with Face ID or Touch ID. Unfortunately, the feature is only available for the entire app, so you won’t be able to lock specific chats and let others unlocked. All in all, it’s a great way to make WhatsApp private when you want to borrow the phone to a friend or family member.
Only iOS users get this option, for now, the Android WhatsApp still has the biometric authentication feature in its beta testing.
You can check out the new feature on your iPhone and get to use (depending on your phone model) either Face ID or Touch ID.
How to Set Biometric Authentication on WhatsApp iOS
First of all, make sure you have the latest version of the app from the Apple App Store – it should show the build 2.19.20.
The update log shows you this next description:
You can now require Face ID or Touch ID to unlock WhatsApp. Tap “Settings” > “Account” > “Privacy” and enable Screen Lock.
There are no other features mentioned in the update log.
However, you must know that if you choose to display message previews and quick reply, the app doesn’t need Face ID or Touch ID. If you want entire privacy, you must turn off this preview and quick reply. The app will only be accessed after authentication is successful.
Android WhatsApp Users Soon to Get Biometric Authentication Option
As for Android WhatsApp users, the biometric authentication is still in Beta as reported last month, and testing shows that it should soon be released on Android too.
The latest update in the Google Play Beta Program brings WhatsApp to the version 2.19.33, adding the possibility to download a single sticker from an undownloaded pack. This feature will be released in the next stable version. The WABetaInfo article explains that you must long tap on a sticker to set as favorite, and it will be saved.
Frances might be just at the beginning of her career, but after attending a technical school, she has a fresh perspective on today’s technology. She contributes to the site with tech news.