WhatsApp has introduced passkey protection for end-to-end encrypted backups on iOS and Android starting October 30 2025, allowing users to secure their stored chats with biometrics or device-based keys rather than passwords.
Previously, backups were protected by a 64-digit encryption key or a password, which many users found complex or cumbersome.
The new passkey system lets users use their phone’s fingerprint sensor, Face ID, or screen-lock code to encrypt chat backups stored on services like Google Drive or iCloud.
According to WhatsApp’s announcement, the rollout will be gradual and may take several weeks or months to reach all users globally. This update is part of a larger shift toward passwordless security across digital platforms. Passkeys are increasingly used as a more user-friendly and stronger alternative to traditional passwords.
For users, the impact is significant: chat backups often contain years of memories, voice notes, photos, and important messages. By simplifying encryption with device-based authentication, WhatsApp aims to reduce risks tied to lost passwords or forgotten keys.
For enterprises and cybersecurity observers, the move raises the bar for messaging‐app protection and may push other platforms to adopt similar standards. The shift could influence how sensitive communications and archives are safeguarded across sectors.
