This week, Apple released iOS 16.3 and macOS Ventura 13.2, bringing with them a long-overdue feature: security key support for Apple IDs. Because of the second authentication problem, you should utilise a USB-C, Lightning, or NFC dongle in place of the six-digit verification number Apple often transmits to a separate system.
A physical key boosts the two-factor authentication process, according to Apple, and helps prevent codes from being intercepted or requested by an attacker. Your account authentication is truly in your hands when you use a safety key, and no one else has access to it. However, you risk being locked out of your account if you misplace your reliable safety keys.
Apple needs two FIDO Certified security keys in order to utilise the new feature, preventing that from happening and giving you a backup. YubiKey’s NFC, USB-C, and Lightning keys as well as the Feitan ePass K9 key is among the most practical keys, however, any FIDO Certified key with the correct port should function. Apple states that USB-C keys should operate with an iPhone via a USB-C to Lightning adaptor, whereas NFC keys will only work on the iPhone.
Additionally, there are a few Apple ID login choices that are incompatible with safety keys:
- Windows users are unable to signal into iCloud.
- Older devices that may not be running iOS 16.3, iPadOS 16.3, or macOS 13.2 cannot receive signals.
- Managed Apple IDs and child accounts are not supported.
Furthermore, an Apple Watch connected to a family member’s iPhone will no longer be supported. According to Apple, in order to utilise a safety key, you must sync your watch with your own iPhone.
The process is simple if you can get through all of that. Follow the on-screen instructions to register your key by going to the Settings app (System Settings on Macs), tapping your Apple ID title, Password & Security, and Add Security Keys. To continue using a safety key, you must continue to be logged into all active devices. You will be signed out of any devices running iOS 16.3, iPadOS 16.3, or macOS 13.2 after the process is finished.
