WhatsApp beta finally adds support for two-step verification
The latest update to WhatsApp beta lets you secure your account with a six-digit passcode. WhatsApp verifies your phone number via an SMS confirmation when you're setting up the service on a new phone, and with two-step verification enabled, you'll have to enter the passcode as well to gain access to your account.
You also get the option to add your email address, which can be used to disable two-step verification should you forget your passcode. If you're looking to go ahead and enable two-step verification, you'll have to consider the following:
WhatsApp doesn't verify your email address, so it asks that you "provide an accurate email address." The service will, however, periodically remind you to enter your passcode.
The feature is now live in the beta channel (2.16.346), and should make its way to the stable release soon. WhatsApp is picking up features at a steady pace, with the ability to make video calls going live on the platform in recent weeks.
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Harish Jonnalagadda is a Senior Editor overseeing Asia at Android Central. He leads the site's coverage of Chinese phone brands, contributing to reviews, features, and buying guides. He also writes about storage servers, audio products, and the semiconductor industry. Contact him on Twitter at @chunkynerd.