Passwords are getting closer and closer to going extinct, as Apple has showcased a passwordless future for users in its iOS 16 and macOS Venture updates.
Password security in 2022 is, in so many words, bad. Businesses and individuals alike don’t take it seriously enough, leading to security breaches and cyber attacks that cost millions of dollars.
Fortunately, passwords are on their way out, and Apple just unveiled its plan for a passwordless future with a new feature on upcoming operating systems.
Apple Announces Passkeys
Apple has revealed that it will be making a big push to get rid of passwords when iOS 16 launches later next month. The new feature, dubbed Passkeys, will allow users to login to their various accounts with Touch ID and Face ID on their phone. Thanks to integration with iCloud Keychain, you’ll be able to sign in on iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple TV with end-to-end encryption.
“People almost always have phones with them,” said Darin Adler, VP of internet technologies at Apple in an exclusive interview with Tom’s Guide. “Face ID and Touch ID verification give you the convenience and biometrics we can achieve with an iPhone. You don’t have to buy another device, but also you don’t even have to learn a new habit.”
This technology obviously isn’t new, with Google implementing similar technology in Pixel devices and other Android phones. Still, it’s a huge step in the right direction to get more users on board with a passwordless future, considering US buyers are more inclined to buy iPhones than any other phone.
Is Password Security Really That Bad?
We won’t mince words on this one: yes. While passwords remain your first line of defense against cyber attacks, the average user doesn’t take it seriously at all. 85% of users admit to using the same password for multiple accounts and the most common password in the US is still “123456.”
“Passwords are key to protecting everything we do online today, from everything we communicate to all of our finances,” said Kurt Knight, senior director of platform product marketing at Apple in the interview with Tom’s Guide. “But they’re also one of the biggest attack vectors and security vulnerabilities users face today.”
The reality is that poor password security can lead to some serious problems for your business. In fact, 81% of security breaches stem from poor password security, so shoring up your security can make a big difference for your bottom line.
If you can’t wait for Apple to roll out Passkeys, there are other ways to make sure your business is set up with solid password security. The best way to do it is with a business password manager. These tools suggest robust passwords, alert you to compromised credentials, and allow for simple business process that keep your business safe.
