Google has introduced a new cryptographic key solution called ” passkeys ” that requires a pre-authenticated device.
This solution will now be available for Google accounts on all major platforms.
From today, Google users have the option to use passkeys instead of traditional passwords and two-step verification codes for signing in.
Google, along with Apple, Microsoft, and other FIDO Alliance-affiliated tech companies, is promoting passkeys as a more secure and user-friendly alternative to passwords.
They can substitute a local PIN or a device’s own biometric authentication, such as a fingerprint or Face ID, for traditional passwords and other sign-in systems like 2FA or SMS verification.
Google does not share this biometric data with any third party.
The passkeys only exist on the user’s devices. it ensures higher security and protection against phishing attempts, as there is no password to be stolen.
When you add a passkey to your Google account, the platform will begin requesting it when you login in or when it detects potentially suspect behaviour that necessitates extra verification.
Users can keep their passkeys for Google accounts on any supported hardware, such as iPhones running iOS 16 and Android devices running Android 9. They can also transfer their passkeys to other devices using services like iCloud or password managers like Dashlane and 1Password (which is due to release in early 2023).