Google has announced on Wednesday that developers may now test Google Password Manager''s passkey capabilities on Android and Chrome. Passkeys are designed as a safer alternative to passwords and traditional two-factor authentication methods. Google claims that passkeys will not be used in server breaches, and that they will ensure that users receive high security. The company expects to release a stable version of this feature later this year.
Google has revealed that passkeys on Android and Chrome are currently only available to developers through the Google Play Services beta and Chrome Canary. Normal users are expected to receive this feature by the end of 2022.
Passkeys in the Google Password Manager are designed to handle different operating systems and browser ecosystems. They are compatible with both websites and applications, as well as a password autofill interface.
Passkeys will be compared to the one used today, as well as ending the password. Even if they have access to a smartphone, users will have to set up a screen lock via fingerprint, face, PIN, or pattern.
Passkeys will be backed up and synced through the cloud to prevent users from becoming locked out if they lose their devices. Alternatively, recovering a passkey would require users to enter the screen PIN, password, or pattern of another device with the password.
PINs, passwords, or patterns for the passkeys will be stored in secure hardware enclaves, according to Google. However, the original user will still be able to recover the information ten or more times.
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In 2023, the company promised to provide even more updates to Android, and plans to allow third-party authentication to support passkeys.