WhatsApp now lets you schedule messages and introduces passkey authentication, boosting both convenience and security. With scheduling, you can set a future send time for texts, photos, videos, or voice notes—perfect for reminders or timed announcements. Passkeys replace traditional passwords with biometric or device‑stored credentials, dramatically cutting phishing and credential‑stuffing attacks while preserving two‑factor protection. These updates aim to streamline chats and protect your account.
Message Scheduling: Send When It Matters
Scheduling lets you compose a message now and choose the exact moment it should appear in the chat. The feature works on iOS, Android, and the web client, covering all major message types.
How Scheduling Works
After typing your message, tap the new clock icon, pick a date and time, and confirm. The app holds the message securely until the scheduled moment, then delivers it automatically—no manual follow‑up needed.
Key Benefits
- Never forget to send a reminder or birthday wish.
- Keep conversations tidy by avoiding out‑of‑hour pings.
- Plan announcements for audiences in different time zones.
Passkeys: A Password‑Free Future
Passkeys are cryptographic credentials stored on your device, used instead of passwords. WhatsApp now supports passkey enrollment on supported platforms, allowing you to log in with a fingerprint, face ID, or a secure device key.
Why Passkeys Improve Security
Because passkeys never travel over the network, attackers can’t intercept them. They also eliminate the need to remember complex passwords, reducing the risk of credential‑stuffing attacks. Combined with existing two‑factor authentication, passkeys make unauthorized access significantly harder.
Staying Safe: Best Practices for WhatsApp Users
Even with new tools, good security habits remain essential. Keep your app updated, enable two‑factor authentication, and watch out for suspicious links or unofficial channels.
Quick Security Checklist
- Update WhatsApp regularly to get the latest features.
- Enable two‑factor authentication in Settings → Account → Two‑step verification.
- Enroll passkeys and retire weak passwords.
- Only join verified groups and follow official channels.
Official News Channels on WhatsApp
WhatsApp now lets organizations broadcast news directly through the app. Users can subscribe to official channels to receive timely updates, breaking news, and alerts without leaving the chat environment. This move turns WhatsApp into a fast‑track information hub while keeping communications private.
Bottom Line
Message scheduling and passkey authentication give you more control and stronger protection on a platform that handles billions of messages daily. Try scheduling your next reminder and switch to passkeys today—your chats will be smoother and your account safer.
