Google has recently announced an exciting update rolling out for Google Chrome on Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and ChromeOS, which now enables users to save passkeys directly to the Google Password Manager. Previously, users could only securely save passkeys on Android devices. While it was possible to log in to various websites on other devices, users were required to scan a QR code from their Android device, which often created additional inconveniences.
With this latest update, when you save a passkey from one device, it will automatically sync across all your other devices. This integration supports multiple authentication methods such as facial recognition, fingerprint scans, PINs, and more, enhancing the overall user experience.
Alongside this announcement, Google is introducing a new Google Password Manager PIN. This PIN serves as an added layer of security to ensure that your passkeys remain end-to-end encrypted and are accessible only to you, ensuring your privacy even from Google itself.
It’s crucial to remember your PIN, as it will be required when using passkeys on any new device. In case you forget your PIN, you can resort to using the screen lock on your Android device.
Passkeys are being widely promoted by major tech companies, including Google, Amazon, PayPal, and WhatsApp. While the shift towards passkeys is gaining momentum, traditional passwords have been a staple since the inception of the internet and will likely continue to be relevant; Google still refers to it as the Google Password Manager rather than a passkey manager, underscoring the enduring prevalence of passwords.
Nonetheless, it’s encouraging to see Google expanding support for passkeys, as this offers users more options for securing their accounts effectively.
We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments! Have you started using passkeys yet, or do you find the concept confusing, preferring to log in using passwords or social media accounts like a Google Account or Facebook Account?
Source: Google
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