Google Introduces Passkeys As A Password Alternative

On Wednesday, Google started rolling out support for passkeys, an alternative sign-in method for apps and websites.

Google claims that customers who use passkeys can log into their accounts using the same methods they use to unlock their phones, such as a fingerprint, facial scan, or screen lock PIN.

The company claims it’s “easier to use and more secure.”

The FIDO Alliance created standards for passkeys. Since then, Google, Apple, and Microsoft have been collaborating to make passkeys a reality.

With the release of iOS 16, Apple made its passkey option available, enabling users to use the technology across apps, including Apple Wallet.

In October 2022, passkey support was released for Chrome and Android devices. it is now accessible for all Google accounts, from Gmail to Drive.

Password selection is notoriously difficult for most people. However, adding even a single special character or alphanumeric string won’t provide complete security against malicious users.

In contrast, passkeys are typically regarded as being more secure than alternative methods, with Google even describing them as “resistant to online attacks like phishing.”

Google will still offer two-factor authentication and passwords as additional account access methods.