No More QR Codes: WhatsApp To Let You Log In On Laptops, Tablets With This New Option

To make WhatsApp more private and secure, the Meta-owned instant messaging app is reportedly working on a new way to link devices without depending entirely on QR codes. As per WABetaInfo, Whatsapp is developing a passkey-based device linking feature for Android that will make the process faster while adding another layer of security. The feature is still under development and is expected to arrive in a future update.At present, users need to scan a QR code from their primary phone to link WhatsApp to another device like --, laptop tablet or computer. With the upcoming feature, users may be able to link a new device using a passkey instead. This will not replace the QR code completely but it will offer an additional and more convenient option.A

passkey is a secure way to verify your identity using your phone's built-in security features, such as your fingerprint, face unlock or screen lock. Unlike SMS codes, passkeys are stored securely on your device or password manager. This process is much harder for attackers to misuse.According to the report, when you try to link a new device using a passkey, WhatsApp will send a confirmation request to your primary phone. If you started the request, you can tap 'Continue[ to approve it. If you did not, you can simply cancel the request. This extra verification is reportedly created to ensure that only the account owner can link a new device.In some situations, the Meta app may still ask users to scan a QR code as an additional verification step, especially when using the feature for the first time. It shows that the company is not removing QR codes but is giving users another secure option.To use this feature, users will first need to create a passkey for their WhatsApp account. Users can create a passkey by going to Settings > Account > Passkeys.The passkey-based device linking option is currently being developed for Android and is not yet available even for beta testers. Meta has not shared a release date, but the feature is expected to roll out to beta users before becoming available to everyone in a future stable update.