Microsoft to say NO to passwords and to shut down Authenticator App

For years, tech companies have been advocating for a shift toward passwordless login systems, citing the reduced security risks associated with traditional passwords. Now, in a major move, Microsoft, the American software behemoth, is on track to completely eliminate password-based logins. The company is focusing on alternatives like push notifications and passkeys to bolster online security and ease the login process for users.

However, while this ambitious change sounds promising in theory, some online users and security experts are expressing concerns about its practical viability. They worry that the transition to passwordless systems may not be as smooth as Microsoft hopes, potentially causing confusion among users and creating unforeseen security challenges.

The Shift to Passwordless with Microsoft Authenticator

Microsoft’s first major step toward a passwordless future will involve its Authenticator app, which will play a central role in the transition. This mobile app, already used by over 75 million people, will no longer support the automatic filling of traditional passwords starting on June 1, 2025. In essence, users will no longer be able to save or use their old-school passwords—those combinations of letters, numbers, and special characters—on the app.

Instead, the focus will shift to more secure methods like push notifications and passkeys. Passkeys, which are a modern alternative to passwords, use cryptographic keys to authenticate users without requiring a password at all. While these methods have been hailed as a more secure and user-friendly option, they require users to embrace a new way of logging in, which may prove to be a steep learning curve for some.

By August 2025, all saved passwords in the Authenticator app will be rendered obsolete, as Microsoft moves toward completely phasing them out and will also shut down its Authenticator Application. The decision marks the beginning of the end for the traditional password and signifies the company’s commitment to modernizing the online security landscape.

The Role of Microsoft Edge in the Transition

Interestingly, Microsoft’s strategy to phase out passwords doesn’t mean they’re getting rid of password storage entirely. For users of Microsoft Edge, the company is allowing saved passwords to continue functioning within the browser’s cache. While this may offer a temporary solution, it raises questions about whether this move truly aligns with the goal of eliminating passwords across the board.

On the surface, this might seem like a reasonable workaround, but many in the tech community view it as a potentially contradictory approach. Microsoft claims this step is necessary to streamline both the security and login process, but critics argue that it could lead to confusion for users. With passwords being stored in the Edge browser but not in the Authenticator app, users could find themselves juggling two different systems, which could diminish the intended benefits of a passwordless future.

A Potential Monopoly in the Making?

Perhaps the most significant point of contention is the idea that Microsoft may be pushing users to adopt Microsoft Edge as the preferred browser for storing their passwords. In this scenario, users would effectively be encouraged—or even pressured—to use a specific browser to take full advantage of the passwordless security features. Some see this as a subtle attempt by Microsoft to gain dominance in the browser space by tying these new security features to Edge.

While there is no explicit mandate to use Edge, the implication is clear: to get the best experience with the new passwordless login system, users may find it more convenient to stick with Microsoft’s browser. Critics are concerned that this could lead to a form of “monopolization” in the realm of online services, with Microsoft leveraging its market power to nudge people toward its ecosystem.

Moving Forward: The Challenges Ahead

While the move to a passwordless future is undeniably a step in the right direction from a security perspective, the road to full implementation is fraught with challenges. From user confusion to potential resistance from those unwilling to switch to a new way of logging in, Microsoft faces significant hurdles in ensuring that its bold initiative becomes a widespread success.

Moreover, the reliance on the Microsoft Edge browser raises questions about user autonomy and choice. While Microsoft is undoubtedly pushing for enhanced security, it must balance this with user flexibility and make sure that its strategies don’t inadvertently limit consumers’ options.

In conclusion, Microsoft’s decision to phase out traditional passwords could be a game-changer for online security, but it’s not without its potential pitfalls. Whether this transition will be smooth or cause more confusion and frustration remains to be seen. As with any major change in the tech world, the impact will only become clear as users begin to navigate this new, passwordless era.