Google makes Passkeys default for personal accounts, enhancing security and convenience

Google has announced that passkeys will now become the default option across its personal accounts, including Gmail, Google Maps and YouTube. This move follows the introduction of passkeys in May, a system designed to provide a simpler and more secure way to sign into online accounts.

Passkeys allow users to log into their Google account by entering their username and then verifying the login attempt using their device's existing password, such as a PIN code, fingerprint, or facial recognition. Previously, users had to manually set up passkeys by visiting g.co/passkeys. However, Google will now show prompts for creating passkeys when users log into their accounts. Each device, including phones, tablets, laptops, and desktops, requires a separate Google account passkey.

The introduction of passkeys eliminates the need for Google's 2-Step Verification. Users have the choice to continue using their password over passkeys by disabling the “Skip password when possible” option.

According to Google, passkeys are 40% faster than passwords. They also use a form of cryptography that enhances their security.