WhatsApp is rolling out a new update that allows users to link an email address to their account. This will help users authenticate their WhatsApp account using email verification instead of SMS. This feature will come in handy when users have access to Wi-Fi but not cellular connectivity and have to verify their WhatsApp account. The feature was previously available to WhatsApp beta users and is now rolling out to general users worldwide. Let’s take a look at the new feature and what it means for users.
WhatsApp Email Address Verification Now Rolling Out to All Users
As spotted by WABetaInfo, WhatsApp is rolling out the 23.24.70 update for iOS on the App Store, which brings the additional verification method. We can expect the feature to roll out on Android as well. As of writing this, we have not received the email address verification method on both iOS and Android. But WABetaInfo claims that the feature is rolling out widely and we can safely assume that the rollout is being carried out in a phased manner.
Notably, unlike its peers, WhatsApp relied only on phone numbers and OTP SMSes to verify and authenticate users. This proved to be problematic when users were stuck in low cellular network areas. It’s all about to change with the introduction of the new feature. The new email method verification is an option feature that can be enabled or disabled by the user. WhatsApp claims that the new feature helps users access their accounts and is not visible to others. This adds an additional layer of security for those who are skeptical about their email address being shared with their contacts or strangers.
WhatsApp will continue to use mobile number verification as the primary method for authenticating users. However, having email address verification is ideal for users who either live in a low cellular network zone or frequently visit. Users can head to Settings > Account > Email Address. Once users enable the feature, they will be able to get the 6-digit code through email instead of SMS. if you don’t have the feature yet, rest assured it will come to your account over the coming weeks.
The Meta-owned instant messaging platform is constantly working on improving the experience for its users. It recently added its own AI chatbot to WhatsApp Beta for Android update. It shows a new icon right above the New Chat icon in the bottom right corner, which gives users access to Meta AI directly from the chat window.
