As part of a new iOS update, WhatsApp is introducing an alternative login method that allows users to log in by entering their email address.
So far, Meta has not made a formal announcement about the upgrade. We continue to learn about this WABetaInfo. They explain that this tool can be useful if you’re ever in a situation where you don’t have cell service and can’t receive the code via text message. Hints of this upcoming feature were first seen in a beta version early November. However, access was limited to a few people. From now on, iPhone owners can enter their personal email address and receive a six-digit code to log in.
Please note that this is strictly a backup method. You still need to enter a phone number to create a brand new WhatsApp account. Logging in with the number obviously remains an option. 9To5Mac the notice states that emails will only be used to “access the account and will not be visible” to others.
To try out the feature, iPhone users will need to install WhatsApp for iOS version 23.24.70. From there, go to the Settings tab and then tap Account, where you’ll find the email login option. No word on whether or not this update will be extended to Android. The latest WhatsApp beta for Android, according to WABetaInfoadds a filter for status updates on the platform and not much else.
Increasing safety
This patch is part of an ongoing effort by Meta to grow and expand WhatsApp security. 2023 was a busy year for the service, with the introduction of the Protect IP Address tool to route phone calls through corporate servers and support for passkeys. In the future, WhatsApp is expected to implement usernames on Android as an added layer of privacy if someone doesn’t feel comfortable sharing their name. It is unknown when we will see this rollout. The last time we heard of it was in May. It is probably still under development
Security always comes first with WhatsApp, but it doesn’t always end with apps. If you want to take data protection to the next level, check out Ny Breaking’s list of the most secure smartphones for 2023.