Best daily deals

Affiliate links on Android Authority may earn us a commission. Learn more.

WhatsApp is rolling out fingerprint authentication to beta users right now

Android OEMs have implemented fingerprint app lock for a while now, but WhatsApp's take is still worth a look.
By
August 13, 2019
Whatsapp update

WhatsApp has implemented a fingerprint authentication option in the latest beta version of the Android app. When enabled (via settings > account > privacy > fingerprint lock), users will need to scan their fingerprint in order to use the app.

The feature, first spotted by WABetaInfo but present on our phones too, requires the 2.19.221 beta. Furthermore, the WhatsApp tipster claims that phones need to have Android Marshmallow or newer (as well as a fingerprint scanner obviously).

whatsapp fingerprint lock 1

The feature can be toggled so that the app requires a fingerprint after 30 minutes, one minute, or anytime you launch the app. It’s worth noting that you can still answer calls without unlocking the app. Furthermore, WhatsApp doesn’t prompt you for a fingerprint when you disable the functionality.

Many smartphone manufacturers have implemented fingerprint app lock technology, allowing users to hide a specific app behind a print. But WhatsApp’s implementation means manufacturers without fingerprint app lock can get in on the action too. It’s also an easier way for people to lock down their app in the event their phone has this functionality anyway. You can sign up for the WhatsApp beta via the Play Store button below.

Previous WhatsApp updates

Share Status to Facebook Stories

June 27, 2019: WhatsApp is testing the ability to share your Status to Facebook Stories, The Verge reported. The WhatsApp team told the outlet that they aren’t linking WhatsApp and Facebook accounts for the feature though, as it apparently relies on Android’s existing sharing functionality. You can even share your WhatsApp Status to Instagram and Google Photos if you so wish.

Privacy settings for group invites

April 3, 2019: The Facebook-owned messaging app has introduced a privacy setting for group invites, so you’ll need to be notified before being added to a group chat. The option is available at account > privacy > groups, and allows you to toggle between ‘nobody,’ ‘my contacts’, or ‘everyone.’ Choose the first option and all users inviting you to a group will need to send you a private invite before you’re added. Choose ‘my contacts’ and your contacts can indeed add you to a group without notifying you first.

Message sharing limits

January 21, 2019: WhatsApp is tackling hoaxes spread on the messaging app by making it so that users can now only forward messages to five contacts or groups at once. The functionality first appeared in India after people were reportedly killed by mobs in connection with hoax WhatsApp messages, but now the restriction is global.

Picture-in-picture videos

December 19, 2018: WhatsApp now supports picture-in-picture videos. The PiP option simply allows you to view web videos in a window, without leaving the WhatsApp chat. You can also drag and resize the video clip, allowing you to see the chat in the background. And yes, you can scroll through the background chat while watching a video.

WhatsApp Stickers

November 8, 2018: WhatsApp has followed other popular messaging apps by adding Stickers. Users can find Stickers under the “emoji” menu via the”sticker” icon at the bottom of a chat. Users can also download more sticker packs using the “+” icon.