Google has unveiled a new feature in its Password Manager that allows users to sync passkeys across multiple devices.
This update promises enhanced security and convenience, making accessing favorite sites and apps more accessible than ever with a fingerprint or facial recognition.
A Step Towards Passwordless Security
Passkeys have been heralded as the next big step in digital security, offering a safer and more user-friendly alternative to traditional passwords.
Unlike passwords, passkeys utilize biometric data such as fingerprints or facial recognition, making them more secure and simpler to use.
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Until recently, Google Password Manager users could only save passkeys on Android devices. While they could be used on other devices, scanning a QR code with an Android device was cumbersome for many users.
Expanding Across Platforms
The latest Google updates are set to change this. Users can now save passkeys to Google Password Manager from various operating systems, including Windows, macOS, Linux, and Android.
ChromeOS is also available for testing in Beta. Once saved, these passkeys automatically sync across all devices, streamlining the sign-in process to be as simple as scanning a fingerprint.
This cross-platform functionality marks a significant leap forward in accessibility and ease of use.
Introducing the Google Password Manager PIN
To enhance security further, Google has introduced a new PIN feature within its Password Manager. This PIN adds an extra layer of protection by ensuring that passkeys are end-to-end encrypted.
Not even Google can access these encrypted keys. When setting up passkeys on a new device, users must know either their Google Password Manager PIN or the screen lock for their Android device.
These recovery factors are essential for securely accessing saved passkeys and syncing new ones across various platforms.
Users can set up a six-digit PIN by default or opt for a longer alphanumeric PIN for added security. This flexibility allows users to choose the level of complexity they are comfortable with while maintaining robust security measures.
With the ability to create passkeys for popular sites and apps like Google, Amazon, PayPal, and WhatsApp, users can start enjoying the benefits of this system immediately.
Since Google Password Manager is integrated into Chrome and Android devices, there’s no need for additional downloads—making the transition to passkeys seamless and straightforward.
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