Google aims to eliminate the need for traditional passwords and make 'passkeys' the default authentication method.

Google aims to eliminate the need for traditional passwords and make 'passkeys' the default authentication method.

Google PassKeys

Google is actively working to replace traditional passwords by encouraging users to generate passkeys for unlocking their accounts and devices, utilizing methods like fingerprint, face scans, or PIN numbers. 

In a recent blog post, Google asserted that passcodes are more convenient to remember, speedier to use, and offer enhanced security. 

Although Google introduced support for passkeys back in May, they have now officially designated this technology as the primary choice during password setup. In its blog post, Google expressed its commitment to encouraging the industry to shift towards passkeys, with the ultimate aim of reducing the reliance on traditional passwords and eventually rendering them obsolete. 

Google will continue to offer support for conventional passwords, and users have the option to bypass passkeys by deactivating the "skip password when possible" feature in their accounts. 

Currently, passkeys are employed as alternatives to passwords in various apps, including YouTube, Search, Maps, Uber, and eBay. 

Additionally, WhatsApp is in the process of integrating this functionality, as stated in the blog. The FIDO Alliance, a security consortium with numerous tech companies as members, has previously developed standards for passkeys. 

Since then, Microsoft, Apple, and Google have been actively working to implement passkeys into their systems. 

Apple introduced its passkey option with the release of iOS 16, allowing users to utilize this technology across various apps, including Apple Wallet. Passkey support was first introduced for Chrome and Android devices in October 2022