Google takes step toward a 'passwordless future'

Passkeys let users sign in to apps and sites by using a fingerprint, a face scan or screen lock PIN

(Web Desk) – Google, world’s leading tech giant, has begun rolling out passkeys, a new way to sign in to apps and websites and a major step toward a “passwordless future.”

The passkeys can be used across Google Accounts on all major platforms. “They’ll be an additional option that people can use to sign in, alongside passwords, 2-Step Verification (2SV), etc,” it said in its blog.

It said the passkeys are an easier and more secure alternative to passwords, which are often frustrating to remember and put users at risk if they end up in the wrong hands. “…maybe by next year’s World Password Day, you won’t even need to use your password, much less remember it!” it hoped.

What are Passkeys?

Passkeys are a new way to sign in to apps and websites. They’re both easier to use and more secure than passwords, so users no longer need to rely on the names of pets, birthdays or the infamous “password123.” Instead, passkeys let users sign in to apps and sites the same way they unlock their devices: with a fingerprint, a face scan or a screen lock PIN. And, unlike passwords, passkeys are resistant to online attacks like phishing, making them more secure than things like SMS one-time codes.

The passkeys are now available as an option for Google Account users who want to try a passwordless sign-in experience.

Passkeys for Google Accounts

Passkeys for Google Accounts are available. You can try them out at g.co/passkeys and setting it up is easy. For Google Workspace accounts, administrators will soon have the option to enable passkeys for their end-users during sign-in.

Of course, like any new beginning, the change to passkeys will take time. That’s why passwords and 2SV will still work for Google Accounts.