WhatsApp is committed to enhancing its application’s independence from the mobile device it is linked to. With an increasing number of supported devices, the need for all processes to go through a specific phone may become obsolete, particularly during the account verification process. WhatsApp is now testing a new method of verification that relies solely on an email address.
In the past, WhatsApp required users to enter a verification code sent via text message during the account registration process to ensure the associated mobile phone was genuinely theirs. However, WhatsApp is evolving, and this verification process is also undergoing a transformation. The new approach allows users to use their email address for account verification, aligning WhatsApp with standard practices used by various social networks. Although this feature is currently available to a limited number of users during the beta phase, it is anticipated that it will be rolled out to the general public in the coming weeks, provided everything functions as intended.
Verification via Email Address
Activating this feature is straightforward. When it becomes widely available, users will be able to access it by navigating to their WhatsApp profile, selecting the account tab, and then accessing the “Email Address” option. Upon entering their email address and validating it using a six-digit verification code sent to their inbox, users will be able to access their WhatsApp account by simply identifying themselves using their email address. There is no need to repeat the configuration process each time they want to access their account. This approach ensures that users can use WhatsApp on any device, even if they haven’t logged in on any of them, as long as they have access to their email account.
It is important to note that this email-based verification method can only be used if the user has previously linked their phone number with their active session conventionally. This makes it a valuable alternative for scenarios where users may lose their mobile device or encounter a dead battery, as they can log in using any computer or device with access to their email account.
Official Announcement Pending
WhatsApp has not yet made an official announcement through its usual channels, such as the blog or social media platforms, regarding this change. Therefore, a specific rollout date for email-based verification has not been confirmed. For now, this feature is available to beta users who download version 2.23.24.10, allowing them to test it. The broader availability of this feature is expected towards the end of this year or, at the latest, during the first weeks of 2024. In the meantime, it is advisable to consistently update the app to ensure access to the latest improvements and security enhancements as well as new functionalities being introduced.