Google has rolled out an update to facilitate passkey synchronization, making it easier for users to move away from conventional passwords. The feature now allows passkeys to be stored and synced across several systems such as Windows, macOS, Linux, and Android, with iOS integration anticipated soon.
Shift from QR Codes to PIN Authentication
Previously, accessing passkeys on various devices entailed Android users scanning QR codes. The update replaces this method with a new PIN in Google Password Manager, bringing more security through end-to-end encryption and keeping passkeys inaccessible to Google.
Users can unlock their new Android gadgets using either the onboard authentication or the freshly added PIN. While the default PIN is six digits, users have the flexibility to change it to a longer alphanumeric password via “PIN options” settings.
Now, passkeys can be saved to Google Password Manager on desktops as well as Android devices, securely syncing them across all platforms. This was outlined by Chirag Desai, Chrome's product manager, in a blog announcement. Once stored, these passkeys sync automatically, and users can leverage biometric authentication—such as fingerprint recognition—for sign-ins.
Security and User Experience
As passkeys serve as login credentials without passwords, they remain securely housed in Google Password Manager. Available in beta on ChromeOS, the update is expected to bring comprehensive support to iOS soon, enhancing user experience with strong security protocols across various devices.
This update is part of a greater industry shift towards passkeys, recognized for being more secure and user-centric than traditional passwords. By minimizing dependence on older password methods, Google's ongoing security evolution addresses user needs in line with industry movements towards passwordless solutions.
In May, Microsoft announced passwordless login (passkeys) for personal accounts on Windows, Google & Apple devices. Microsoft's move to expand passkey support comes at a critical time, as the company reported a staggering 3,378 percent increase in password attacks since 2015, with current figures showing more than 4,000 attacks per second.
Related: How to Remove the Login Password for Easy Sign-in on Windows 11
Windows 11, like its predecessors, emphasizes security with features such as password-protected accounts. While this is a crucial aspect of keeping your data safe, there are scenarios where you might want to remove the password requirement for convenience, particularly on a personal or non-critical device. In our other guide, we show you how to remove the login password from Windows 11 to log into your System directly.