Google just made typing passwords on desktop computers a thing of the past

Taking a cue from Apple, Google is trying to make it much easier to log in across devices using passkeys.

Previously, Google only allowed passwords in Google Password Manager for Android. In a blog post published Thursday, the company announced that it is expanding the password feature in its proprietary Password Manager to include the desktop as well, hoping to “(move) us one step closer to a passwordless future.”

The update has already rolled out to Windows, macOS, and Linux, while ChromeOS is currently in beta testing. iOS support is also reportedly in the works, though Google has only said it is “coming soon,” according to Toma Guide .

While you could previously use passkeys in Google Password Manager on other devices, you had to scan a QR code with your Android device. That extra layer has now been removed. To log into sites on your desktop, you can simply use your fingerprint or face lock, which is not only much faster than typing in a password, but also much more secure. Although it’s clear that Google is not only trying to make the login experience faster and easier, but also making sure we use it to log into all new sites and apps.

Once your passkeys are synced across your devices, all you need is your biometrics to log in. However, to create passkeys, access saved passkeys on your devices, or start using passkeys on a new device, Google will require you to enter a six-digit encrypted PIN that it says “cannot be accessed by anyone, not even Google.” This will add an extra layer of security to biometric logins. You’ll also be able to unlock your Android screen to use passkeys for the first time on a new device.

The six-digit PIN option is available by default. If you are not comfortable with the idea of ​​all your valuable data hidden behind six digits, you can go to the PIN option and create a longer alphanumeric PIN.

This update reminded me of how Apple made it easier to log in across devices with the introduction of the Passwords app, announced for the new iOS 18, iPadOS 18, and macOS 15 software during its annual Worldwide Developers Conference in June. Like Google, Apple also managed passwords through its iCloud Keychain, but decided it was time for a dedicated password manager app to streamline the process, especially since Keychain was notoriously buggy.