Log in to Telegram via Passkeys Without Codes or Phone Numbers

In the future, Telegram plans to introduce authentication via Passkeys. The first signs of this feature have appeared in the Beta version of Telegram for Android 12.2.8.

The key advantage of Passkeys is the ability to log into your account without entering a phone number or a one-time code. This distinguishes it from logging in via email or Google / Apple ID, which serve merely as alternatives to receiving an SMS code.

A “log in using passkey” button has appeared on the app's login screen. Tapping it launches your password manager, which verifies your identity using Face ID, fingerprint, or your screen lock PIN. From it, the messenger receives your signature, which functions as your login, password, and one-time confirmation code all simultaneously.

Much like email login, this new feature will need to be pre-configured in Telegram’s security settings. The key will be saved on the phone where it was created, but it can be synced with other devices via Google Password Manager, iCloud Passwords, or other applications.

Why is this important?

• Reduced reliance on SMS: This makes logging in possible even if you don’t have active sessions and your mobile operator is blocking SMS messages from Telegram.

• Security: The Passkey is stored in a secure enclave of your password manager—it cannot be intercepted or entered on a phishing site.

• Speed: Login is performed with a single touch via biometrics (face or fingerprint). When you switch phones, the Passkey automatically syncs via your password manager using your Google account or Apple ID.

The feature is currently under development and is not yet fully functional. Stay tuned for news about Telegram Beta versions on our Beta Info channel.

#Android #beta #security

Telegram Launches Passkey Auth Worldwide

Telegram added Passkeys as a login method, now rolling out globally. The key advantage of Passkeys is the ability to log into your account with a single touch, without entering your phone number and looking for an OTP code.

How to create a passkey:

• Ensure you have the latest version of the app (Android — 12.2.10; iOS — 12.2.3).

• This new feature must be configured in advance. Go to Settings › Privacy and Security › Passkeys.

• If the "Passkeys" option is missing, it is not yet available for your account.

• Tap "Add Passkey" and confirm its creation.

• Your device may request your screen lock code or biometrics to unlock the key storage.

• The created key will appear in the list.

How to log in using a passkey:

• On the latest version of Telegram for Android or iOS, the app will automatically offer to select a passkey for login.

• If this doesn't happen, a "log in with passkey" link will appear under the "Your phone number" header after a few seconds — tap it.

• Tapping the button launches your password manager, which prompts you to select a key, verifies your identity via face, fingerprint, or screen lock PIN, and then transmits the selected key to the messenger.

• The passkey functions as both the phone number and the one-time verification code simultaneously.

• If you have Two-Step Verification enabled, you will still need to enter your password you've set in Security settings.

Q&A:

1. Can I register a new account with a Passkey?
No, this feature works only as an alternative to logging in via SMS or email.

2. What happens if I lose my phone?
The key is stored on the device where it was created, but it can be synced with other devices via Google Password Manager, iCloud Passwords, or other applications.

You can check your password manager settings on your device:
• On Android: Open "Settings" and search for "Google Autofill". Ensure the correct Google account is selected in the password manager.
• On iOS: Open "Settings" and tap your name at the top. Select iCloud › Passwords. Ensure sync is enabled.

3. What if my phone or key is stolen?
The Passkey is securely stored in the encrypted enclave of your password manager — it cannot be intercepted or entered on a phishing site. Additionally, you can always remove the key associated with your account in Telegram's Security settings.

4. Are third-party password managers supported?
Yes. If you use a password manager that supports Passkeys (e.g., Bitwarden, KeePassDX) and enable it in your system's autofill settings, you can save your Telegram passkey there.

5. Which clients support Passkeys?
Keys are supported on the latest versions of official Telegram apps for Android, iOS, and Telegram Desktop (Windows only — requires Windows Hello).

Not supported: Telegram Desktop on macOS and Linux, Telegram for macOS (Swift), Telegram WebK and WebA, Telegram X. Any unofficial apps won't be supported in this update due to Passkey security requirements.

6. Can I have multiple keys for one account on one device?
Yes. A list will appear on the login screen, allowing you to select the desired profile.

7. What's the maximum number of passkeys I can have?
Up to 5 on a Telegram account

If you have trouble setting up Passkeys on Android, please read our Passkeys Troubleshooting Guide for Android.

#security