WhatsApp testing fingerprint authentication on Android phones
WhatsApp doesn’t require a password or PIN in order to be opened, which means anyone can access your account if your phone is unlocked. Fortunately, the Facebook-owned company is reportedly working on a solution to the problem.
According to reliable website WABetaInfo, WhatsApp is testing fingerprint authentication on the Android version of the app. Once enabled, you’ll need a fingerprint to open the app from the app icon, notification shade, or “external pickers.”
Additionally, a screenshot of the functionality shows that you can use your device credentials (presumably your PIN code) instead of a fingerprint if you’d like. This could prove handy if your fingerprint scanner is finicky or broken.
It’s worth noting that fingerprint authentication in WhatsApp seems to be a blanket option. So you can’t hide specific conversations and contacts behind a biometric wall.
WABetaInfo adds that the feature will be available to all fingerprint-toting Android devices running Marshmallow or later. The outlet notes that the functionality is still at the alpha stage of development, suggesting it’ll be months before it actually launches.
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