WhatsApp for iPhone has received an important update through build version 2.19.20. The latest update brings the anticipated biometric authentication that allows users to lock the WhatsApp on their iPhone models by deploying the native Face ID or Touch ID. The new feature, which has been in anticipation since October last year – when the new authentication addition was reported for the first time, works similarly to how you can lock Outlook or Signal on your iPhone. It essentially applies biometric authentication to open WhatsApp.

Although you can’t secure your messages on a per-chat basis, the new layer of biometric security should give the contents of your messages more protection even if your phone itself is already unlocked. You’ll want to be careful about your notification settings if you choose to secure your app, though, specifically message previews. If you have them turned on then you’ll be able to both see and reply to any messages without having to unlock the app. You’ll also be able to respond to any WhatsApp calls without needing to unlock the app first.

With the latest WhatsApp update, you can lock the WhatsApp app with Face ID or Touch ID by going to Settings > Account > Privacy > Screen Lock. Once you moved to the Screen Lock screen, the app shows the available authentication method – either Face ID or Touch ID – that you can enable to lock your WhatsApp.