Google began integrating passkey technology as part of its ongoing mission to improve online security and make passwords a thing of the past. By partnering with the FIDO Alliance, a group including other tech giants, such as Apple and Microsoft, promoting passwordless authentication across industries.
Passkeys, which Google started rolling out in 2022, bring users a safer and smoother way to log into accounts without passwords, by using device-based authentication such as biometric authentication (like fingerprints or facial scans) or PINs.
Passkeys use key-pair encryption to create a unique digital key pair for each service, with one of the keys securely stored on the user's device. This setup ensures that only the device owner can log in, offering strong protection against phishing and hacking. This shift to passkeys is part of Google's overall strategy to improve digital identity safety and enhance online privacy for millions of users. Learn more about what passkeys are.
To get started with Google Passkey, users need to enable the feature through the account settings.
Begin by navigating to your Google Account Security page, where you will find setup options for passkey authentication.
Tap "Enable Google Passkey," then follow the prompts to verify your device's biometrics or PIN, which will securely store your passkey on the device.
Once enabled, Google Passkey can be used for apps and websites that support this feature. Simply authenticate with your biometrics or PIN, no password is needed.
Suppose you encounter issues with Google Passkey not working. In that case, it is necessary to check whether the device software is updated to the latest version and that biometrics or other authentication methods are enabled. Troubleshooting steps may require restarting or re-enabling Google Passkey in settings.
Google Passkeys use key-pair encryption to securely link your device to your Google account, fully replacing the need for passwords. This system integrates seamlessly into the Google ecosystem through Google Password Manager, allowing users to store, manage, and sync passkeys across their devices for a consistent, secure login experience.
When you’re setting up a passkey, your device generates a unique private key, stored safely on the device, while a corresponding public key is shared with Google. Using advanced cloud technology, Google syncs these passkeys across all devices signed into your account, including smartphones, tablets, and computers.
This setup allows users to use the same passkey on any compatible device within Google’s ecosystem, ensuring a smooth and unified login experience. With this method, only the authorized user can access the account, providing strong protection against unauthorized access and phishing attempts while maintaining ease of use.
Google Passkeys offer a stronger, safer alternative to traditional passwords, addressing the core weaknesses that make standalone passwords risky. Research estimates that over 80% of data breaches result from weak or reused passwords, as users often rely on easy-to-remember combinations that are highly vulnerable to hacking.
This reliance not only compromises security but also impacts user experience, with many struggling to remember passwords and frequently needing resets.
In contrast, Passkeys use a private key stored securely on the device, accessible only through biometrics or a unique PIN. This method eliminates the need for memorization and blocks unauthorized access, allowing only the account holder to verify their identity. Acting as a built-in form of multi-factor authentication, Passkeys significantly reduce friction in the login process, combining advanced security with a seamless user experience
Implementing Google Passkeys offers significant benefits not only for individual users but also for online businesses and organizations:
For users, passkeys offer an easier, more secure login reducing reliance on passwords and enhancing account protection, they also provide quick access across all devices logged into a Google account, ensuring consistency and ease of use. Passkeys also enhance privacy offering users more control of their identity and lowering exposure to threats.
For businesses and companies, Implementing passkeys in Google apps offers a host of advantages beyond enhanced security. By eliminating the need for password resets, Google Passkeys reduce support costs, allowing businesses to reallocate resources toward growth and innovation. For customers, passkeys provide a seamless and intuitive login experience, reducing friction and drop-off while encouraging more frequent engagement. This smooth authentication process fosters stronger connections and builds trust, resulting in more positive and lasting experiences with a brand they can rely on.
Google’s two-factor authentication (2FA), particularly through Google Authenticator, has been a trusted security tool for years, adding an extra step to prevent unauthorized access. But even as 2FA increases security, users are still required to do a manual entry of time-sensitive codes and manage multiple steps, which they often find inconvenient.
Passkeys take this security model to the next level by combining 2FA-level protection with convenience. Using cryptographic key-pair technology, passkeys enable users to securely authenticate in one step, never having to enter codes, essentially merging two-factor authentication into a single seamless step. It maintains the dual security of something you have (your device) and something you are (biometrics) but without the extra step.
Samsung Passkey integrates with Samsung Pass and Knox Matrix to provide password-free login across the Samsung ecosystem. It offers compatibility with Galaxy devices for biometric authentication via Samsung Pass and creates a Trust Chain for enhanced multi-device security. However, Samsung passkeys are usually stored locally by default and don't sync with different platforms outside of the Samsung network.
Meanwhile, Google Passkey, which is managed through Google Password Manager, supports a wide array of devices across both the Android and Chrome ecosystems. Google syncs passkeys across devices linked to a Google account. Making it a versatile option for users who rely on multiple Android devices.
While both use FIDO standards for strong protection against phishing and unauthorized access attempts, Google's cross-platform capabilities are added advantages to users invested in the Android ecosystem beyond Samsung devices.
Go to your Google Account Security page, select “Passkey setup,” and follow the prompts to enable it with your biometrics or PIN.
Your passkey is securely stored in Google Password Manager on your device, accessible through your account security settings.
Pros: Strong security, phishing resistance, and no password management needed. Cons: Limited to compatible devices and apps, and some users may face initial setup challenges.
If you lose access, try re-enabling passkeys in your Google Account Security settings, or re-setup on a new device. Always ensure backup authentication methods are active.
