Leading password manager 1Password has introduced passkey support to its mobile applications, enhancing the convenience and security of authentication. Users of the 1Password app on iPhones running the latest iOS 17 and Android 14 devices can now save passkeys and use them to sign in to compatible services. Additionally, passkey support extends to 1Password’s browser extensions on Windows, Mac, and Linux computers.
The company also revealed its plans to deliver an end-to-end passkey experience across all platforms and devices later in the fall. This upcoming feature will allow 1Password customers to unlock their accounts using a passkey, further promoting passwordless authentication.
This development follows the recent announcement by NordPass, which also added support for passkeys on iOS 17. Apple’s new mobile operating system introduced a significant change, allowing third-party apps to manage passkeys. Previously, iPhone users could only create and store passkeys using Apple’s proprietary password manager, Keychain, restricting their use to Apple devices. However, the inclusion of third-party password managers enables cross-platform support for passkeys.
Steve Won, Chief Product Officer of 1Password, emphasized the security and convenience of passkeys, stating, “Passkeys are the best form of passwordless authentication that balances security and convenience, and 1Password is committed to enabling all businesses and consumers to embrace them.” He also noted that being the first to provide a fully passwordless experience underscores their dedication to simplifying authentication while enhancing security, ultimately contributing to a safer digital future.
The adoption of passkeys as an authentication method is gaining momentum across various services. Major tech players like Apple, Google, and Microsoft have embraced this trend, alongside services like WhatsApp and GitHub. Passkeys offer heightened security, leveraging a zero-knowledge architecture where neither the user nor anyone else knows the actual passkey. Authentication relies on the user’s device lock method, such as fingerprint, facial recognition, or PIN, making passkeys both secure and convenient for users.
