WhatsApp close to adding fingerprint locking feature to Android app
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WhatsApp is quietly testing new ways to make its mobile app more secure. The latest addition to the Android app could be the fingerprint locking feature, which is now being tested in the beta channel.
WhatsApp has been working on the fingerprint locking feature for quite a few months now, but the new function is not yet ready for prime time. Previously known as Authentication or Screen Lock, the new feature can be enabled from the Settings menu under the Account / Privacy tabs.
Keep in mind though that you will still be able to reply to messages directly from notifications, as well as answer WhatsApp calls since the app will only ask you for authentication when you want to open WhatsApp.
Fingerprint lock will also allow users to choose when they must authenticate to use the app, but they can also choose when exactly WhatsApp will automatically lock after use: immediately, after 1 minute, after 30 minutes.
For the time being, the new feature is available only in WhatsApp for Android beta, although you need version 2.19.221 or newer to find it in the Settings menu. If everything goes well during tests, Fingerprint Lock might be deployed to all Android users in the next couple of weeks.
Questions & Answers
Q.When is this new fingerprint locking feature expected to be available for all Android users?
When is this new fingerprint locking feature expected to be available for all Android users?
If testing proceeds without issues, the Fingerprint Lock feature could be rolled out to all Android users within the next couple of weeks. It is currently being tested in the beta channel.
Q.Will I need to authenticate with my fingerprint every time I receive a WhatsApp notification?
Will I need to authenticate with my fingerprint every time I receive a WhatsApp notification?
No, you will still be able to reply to messages directly from notifications and answer calls without authentication. The app will only prompt for your fingerprint when you attempt to open WhatsApp itself.
Q.What options will users have for how often the app locks after use?
What options will users have for how often the app locks after use?
Users will be able to choose how quickly WhatsApp automatically locks after use. The available options will be immediately, after 1 minute, or after 30 minutes, giving flexibility.