WhatsApp is preparing to make logging into linked devices faster and more secure with a new passkey-based authentication system. The upcoming feature is expected to reduce the need to scan a QR code every time users want to connect their WhatsApp account to a laptop or desktop computer.

The change is currently under development and is expected to roll out first for Android users. While the traditional QR code method will continue to be available, users will soon have the option to authenticate linked devices using a passkey, offering a quicker and more secure login experience.

WhatsApp Plans to Simplify Device Linking

At present, users who want to access WhatsApp on a PC or laptop through WhatsApp Web or the desktop application must link the device by scanning a QR code using their smartphone.

The QR code is displayed on the computer screen, and the connection is established only after the phone successfully scans and verifies it. This has been the primary method for linking additional devices under WhatsApp's multi-device support.

The upcoming update aims to simplify this process by introducing passkey authentication as an alternative.

Passkeys Could Replace QR Code for Login

According to reports, WhatsApp is developing a passkey-based login system that will allow users to authorize new linked devices without relying solely on QR code scanning.

Once the feature becomes available, users will be able to choose between scanning a QR code or verifying their identity with a passkey. The QR code method is expected to remain available, but it will no longer be the only option.

This enhancement could make device linking faster while adding another layer of account security.

What Is a Passkey?

A passkey is a modern authentication method designed to replace traditional passwords with stronger and more convenient security.

Instead of entering a password, users verify their identity using the security features already built into their devices. These may include:

• Fingerprint authentication
• Facial recognition
• Device PIN or screen lock
• Other supported biometric verification methods

Passkeys are securely stored on the user's device or in a compatible password manager, making them more resistant to phishing attacks and password theft.

Because the authentication remains tied to the user's trusted device, passkeys are considered one of the safest login technologies currently available.

How the New Login Process May Work

After the feature is introduced, linking a new computer or laptop could become much simpler.

When attempting to connect a new device, WhatsApp is expected to display a confirmation request on the user's primary phone.

After approving the request, the user will verify their identity using the registered passkey. Once authentication is completed, the new device will be linked automatically without requiring a QR code scan.

However, WhatsApp may still request QR code verification in certain situations where additional security checks are necessary, such as when logging in from an unfamiliar device or location.

Users Will Need to Create a Passkey

To use the upcoming feature, users will first need to create a passkey within the WhatsApp app.

The option is expected to be available through:

Settings → Account → Passkeys

After setting up a passkey, eligible users can use it for future linked-device authentication whenever the feature is supported.

Android Rollout Expected First

The passkey-based login system is currently being developed for Android devices. There is no official confirmation yet regarding when the feature will arrive for iPhone users or whether both platforms will receive it simultaneously.

As with many WhatsApp updates, the feature is likely to undergo testing before being released to all eligible users through a future app update.

A Step Toward Faster and Safer Logins

WhatsApp has been steadily expanding its security features to improve account protection while making the app easier to use. The planned passkey-based linked device login follows recent efforts to introduce new privacy and authentication tools across the platform.

If rolled out widely, the feature could significantly reduce the time required to connect WhatsApp to a computer while giving users a more secure alternative to QR code-based authentication.