Apple has recently announced a new feature that will make logging into Apple websites more convenient for users. The tech giant will automatically assign a passkey, allowing users to sign into their Apple ID using Face ID or Touch ID instead of their password. This passkey option will be available on various Apple sign-in pages, including icloud.com.
With this update, Apple users can enter a passkey instead of their complete Apple ID credentials, including their PIN and password, when logging into Apple websites. This will streamline the login process and provide a more user-friendly experience.
In a statement, Apple explained that this update will enable users to sign into any Apple web property using their designated passkey for their Apple ID. It can also be utilized with “Sign in with Apple” on the web, enhancing security and convenience for users.
The passkey feature is designed to improve online authentication by offering a simpler and more secure alternative to traditional passwords. Passkeys are easier to use and reduce the risks associated with account compromises. Unlike passwords, passkeys are not susceptible to being leaked, exposed, or stolen. Additionally, passkeys are not reused across different sites, mitigating the risk of stolen credentials affecting multiple accounts.
Apple’s passkey implementation is based on the WebAuthn standard, allowing users to utilize biometric authentication methods such as Face ID or Touch ID. Alternatively, users can also use a PIN to validate their login attempts.
It is important to note that the private key associated with the passkey remains on the user’s devices and is never transmitted to websites or apps. This ensures that the passkey cannot be leaked or compromised. Furthermore, users can securely share a passkey with others using AirDrop, and they can also use a passkey on their iPhone to sign in to accounts on non-Apple devices.
Currently, users running beta versions of iOS 17, iPadOS 17, and macOS Sonoma can test the passkey feature on iCloud.com and appleid.apple.com. The feature will be available for all supported devices upon the release of iOS 17, iPadOS 17, and macOS Sonoma later this year.
Apple’s introduction of passkey support for Apple web logins reflects their commitment to enhancing user security and simplifying the login experience. With this new feature, Apple ID owners can look forward to a more streamlined and secure authentication process when accessing Apple’s web properties.
