Google is rolling out a really useful update to Google Password Manager that lets users sync their passkeys across multiple devices. Up until this point, people could only store passkeys Google Password Manager on Androidthus, cross-device utility was limited. It was possible to use passkeys on other devices, but it would require users to scan a QR code.
The update lets you save passwords via Google Password Manager on Windows, macOS, Linux, and of course, Android. ChromeOS is currently in beta testing, so functionality should come sooner rather than later. Google also says iOS support is coming “soon.”
Once saved, the passkey is automatically synced between other devices using Google Password Manager. The company says this information is end-to-end encrypted, so it will be extremely difficult for someone to break in and steal your credentials.
For the uninitiated, a passkey is slightly different than a password. A passkey is a digital credential that allows users to access an account without using a password. The company uses toggle switches in its software suite from last year.
Today’s update also brings another layer of security to passkeys in Google Password Manager. The company has introduced a six-digit PIN that will be required when using the passkeys on the new device. This will likely stop malicious actors from accessing the account, even if they have acquired the digital credentials. Do not put the PIN number on the sheet directly next to the computer.
Google passkeys can of course be used with the company’s productivity software, but also with Amazon, PayPal, and WhatsApp. Google Password Manager is built right into Chrome and Android devices.
