WhatsApp is rolling out a new way to secure and access your encrypted backups using passkeys. This update lets you use your fingerprint, face ID, or screen lock instead of remembering passwords or storing long encryption keys.

For years, WhatsApp backups lacked encryption. That changed in 2021 when Meta introduced end-to-end encryption for chat backups. Users could protect their data with either a password or a 64-character encryption key. The downside was obvious if you forgot the password or lost the key, you couldn’t restore your chats.

The new passkey feature solves that problem. It links your encrypted backup access to your device’s biometric or lock screen method. If you lose your phone, you can still recover your chats securely using your old device’s authentication method.

WhatsApp, which surpassed 3 billion active users in May, says the rollout will take place over the next few weeks and months. Some users may already see the option under:

Settings > Chats > Chat backup > End-to-end encrypted backup.

There, you can enable encryption and check if passkey access is available on your account.

This update strengthens WhatsApp’s privacy features and makes restoring backups simpler and safer. Users no longer need to remember complex keys, just use their face, fingerprint, or screen lock.