By WhatsApp, which is owned by Meta, has been actively rolling out a series of long-awaited and innovative features, many of which focus on enhancing user privacy and security. These updates have made the app notably more secure than it was in the past couple of years.
In the latest update, available through the Google Play Beta Program as version 2.23.18.19, a new feature is in development to verify users’ email addresses. While this feature had been glimpsed earlier, limited details were available due to its developmental stage.
According to information from WABetaInfo, a screenshot from this beta version showcases an evolving email verification screen. Although the exact functionality is not entirely clear, it is speculated that this feature may provide users with an alternative method to access their WhatsApp accounts by confirming their email.
This feature holds practical value, especially in situations involving SMS issues, lost devices or SIM cards, or unreliable SMS services in specific regions. Importantly, it is an optional feature, and users who already utilize Google accounts for chat backups or have two-step verification in place may have their email addresses automatically verified. Crucially, for privacy concerns, your WhatsApp contacts will not have access to your email address.
It’s worth noting that while the email verification feature is described as optional and still in development, it has been identified by WhatsApp beta testers using version 2.23.16.15 of the app.
WhatsApp already allows users to provide an email address when setting up a PIN for two-step verification, but this is the first time that WhatsApp is considering email for login purposes.
Among the range of security and privacy features WhatsApp offers, including end-to-end encryption, disappearing messages, and biometric authentication, this email verification feature could be a valuable addition for users. Its potential uses are diverse, including assisting users who encounter login issues due to SMS problems, lose their phones or SIM cards, or reside in areas with unreliable SMS services. However, it remains an optional feature. For those who already use their Google accounts for chat backups or have implemented two-step verification, their email addresses may be verified automatically. It’s reassuring to note that, for privacy reasons, your email address will remain concealed from your WhatsApp contacts.
