Google to make passwords obsolete? Here’s what the tech giant is planning with passkeys
Google is set to revolutionize the way we access our accounts by making traditional passwords a thing of the past. The tech giant is encouraging users to adopt «passkeys,» unlocking their accounts and devices using cutting-edge methods such as fingerprint recognition, facial scans, or PIN numbers.
Google's Vision for Passkeys
On Tuesday, Google emphasized the advantages of passkeys, stating that they eliminate the need for users to remember complex passwords, are more convenient, and offer enhanced security. While Google introduced support for passkeys in May, it has now announced its plan to prompt users to adopt this revolutionary option in place of traditional passwords.
In a blog post, Google asserted, "[W]e'll continue encouraging the industry to make the pivot to passkeys — making passwords a rarity, and eventually obsolete."
Google's commitment to traditional passwords remains unwavering, and users can opt-out of passkeys by disabling the «skip password when possible» feature in their accounts.
Passkeys in Action
Passkeys are already replacing traditional passwords in a range of applications, including YouTube, Search, Maps, Uber, and eBay. WhatsApp is also set to introduce this feature, as per the blog post.
The FIDO Alliance, a security consortium comprising numerous tech firms, previously established standards for passkeys. Tech giants such as Microsoft, Apple, and Google have since joined forces to make passkeys a reality.
Apple introduced its passkey option with the release of iOS 16, enabling users to employ this technology across various apps, including Apple Wallet. In October 2022, passkey support was integrated into Chrome and Android devices.
The Promise of Passkeys
In its Tuesday
