Google Pixel 8 series launched last year with improved Facial Recognition features, allowing users to access compatible banking and payment apps.

WhatsApp now supports facial recognition on Pixel 8 smartphones. This update provides a convenient way to unblock WhatsApp and keep your chats safe from prying eyes.

Once users set up facial recognition in their instant messaging app, they can unlock the app by looking at their phone’s front camera. This feature eliminates the need for biometric authentication.

Meta’s instant messaging platform has added a new layer of security for Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro users in its latest update to its app. Facial recognition support for the Pixel 8 series appears to have been released in stable WhatsApp version 2.24.8.85.

After the update, when you launch the app, WhatsApp will display the face unlock system screen at the bottom of the screen and a ring will appear around the front camera.

If the app doesn’t recognize your face within a few seconds, it will revert to the fingerprint sensor notification. Users can also enter a PIN. Gadget 360 was able to use facial recognition for WhatsApp on the Pixel 8.

The latest update also appears to bring visual changes to the WhatsApp is locked screen. As seen on the Pixel 8, the lock screen now displays the word “Lock” instead of the previous checkmark.

Google has offered facial recognition options in its flagship phones for several years. However, the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro smartphones, launched last October, were the first to be upgraded with Facial Recognition Features, giving users access to compatible banking and payment apps such as Google Wallet.

This feature is based on the Google Tensor G3 SoC and advanced machine learning algorithms as well as the Titan M2 security chip. This allows contactless NFC transactions to be authorized via Google Pay.