WhatsApp introduces lock-unlock feature via Face ID, Touch ID for iOS

After days of anticipation, Facebook-owned instant messaging platform WhatsApp has announced its latest update to add an extra layer of security for iPhone users. With this latest update coming into effect, users will be able to set up Face ID or Touch ID to open WhatsApp on their iOS devices. The feature is available for WhatsApp iOS version 2.19.20 and users can avail it via Apple’s App Store.

In a related note, the newly introduced 'Face ID' feature to WhatsApp iOS will be available for iPhone X, iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, and iPhone XR users only. However, the Touch ID feature is accessible on other iPhone models as well.

Meanwhile, users who are waiting eagerly to avail these newly introduced features on their iOS devices may go through the following steps:

Step 1: Open WhatsApp. Go to Settings.

Step 2: Choose Account and tap on Privacy

Step 3: Toggle the button to enable Screen Lock.

While switching on the new privacy mode, users will be given options to unlock WhatsApp immediately, after one minute, after 15 minutes or after one hour. Therefore, if one chooses the first option, WhatsApp will be unlocked in no time after using the respective Touch ID or Face ID. In case, the Touch ID or Face ID fails in authenticating, users will be asked to provide their pass code to gain access.

Reports suggest that the authentication process sometimes shows a bit of lag in terms of response time as the feature was still in its testing phases. However, the final version is expected to be free of such issues.

As per the latest reports, the feature is yet to be introduced for Android users and is very unlikely keeping in mind the poor security standards. However, Android users can still avail a similar security layer through fingerprint sensor.