WhatsApp is testing a new login option that lets users authenticate with an email address in the messenger, a development surfaced by the WABetaInfo portal. The feature is being explored as part of ongoing experiments and has not reached a broad release. While it may eventually simplify access for some users, it remains limited to select testers and stages of internal testing across Android builds. This information highlights WhatsApp’s effort to diversify sign-in methods while preserving core account security and user flow.
Currently, email sign-in exists as a work-in-progress and is specific to a particular beta version, noted as 2.23.18.19 in early Android beta testing. The approach signals an intention to offer alternatives to the traditional phone-number-based verification, though it continues to rely on a layered authentication process during the beta phase. For the broader user base, this means the email option is not yet available for general download and use, but it demonstrates a clear direction toward more flexible account access options.
Under the envisioned system, an email address would serve as an alternative channel to access a WhatsApp account. Privacy considerations are emphasized, with assurances that the email itself would not be visible to other users or their contacts. At the same time, the existing requirement to register with a phone number remains in place for new accounts, ensuring a familiar onboarding path for new users while offering additional security resilience for returning users who may lose access to SMS codes.
The proposed email-based sign-in could be particularly advantageous for individuals who encounter barriers with SMS-based verification. People who do not consistently receive the six-digit codes or experience delays could benefit from an option that leverages email verification as a fallback or supplementary authentication step. This potential improvement aligns with broader industry trends toward multi-channel verification to reduce login friction while maintaining strong security practices.
Participation in this authentication approach is voluntary for now. Users will retain the current SMS-based login method if they prefer, and switching between methods is expected to be a consideration during later testing phases. The design goal appears to be preserving user choice while gradually expanding the suite of secure sign-in options, which could help improve accessibility for a wider audience in the future.
There is no announced timeline for when the email sign-in will roll out to the general public. WhatsApp’s product team has not provided a definitive release date, and the feature remains in the testing and evaluation stage. For Canada and the United States, this means potential users should watch for official updates and beta program announcements if they want to participate or evaluate the new method as it becomes available. The ongoing work underscores the company’s focus on strengthening account protection through diversified authentication paths and resilient recovery options.
Recent product notes mention that developers have also released a separate macOS version of the app, indicating continued platform expansion and cross-device support. This broader ecosystem development complements the experiments with alternate sign-in methods by ensuring users can access WhatsApp across devices with consistent security and usability considerations. As the company advances its authentication strategy, users across North America may anticipate clearer guidance on how new methods integrate with existing account recovery and privacy controls, along with practical benefits for everyday use. (cite: WABetaInfo)