Unpacking Apple’s New Passwords App: Is It a Game Changer for Security?

Security Bite: Has Apple’s Passwords App Replaced Your Password Manager Yet?

Key Points

• With iOS, iPadOS 18, and macOS Sequoia, Apple introduced a standalone Passwords app to improve credential management.
• The app features a simple layout similar to the Reminders app, offering categories like All, Passkeys, Codes, Wi-Fi, Security, and Deleted.
• Users can view saved credentials, manage passkeys, create verification codes, review Wi-Fi logins, and receive alerts about compromised passwords.
• Family Passwords sharing is also available.

Advantages

• Privacy and Security: Apple’s strong emphasis on user privacy and security makes the app a trusted option.
• Ease of Use: The app is designed for simplicity, making it accessible to new users who have never used a password manager before.
• Cross-Device Synchronization: Credentials can be accessed from any signed-in Apple device, including Windows via iCloud for Windows.

Drawbacks

• Lack of Browser and Android Support: The app is exclusive to Apple devices, which can be inconvenient for users with mixed-platform setups.
• Limited Features: Compared to paid password managers like 1Password, the Passwords app lacks advanced features such as secure notes, document storage, cross-browser integration, two-factor authentication, custom password generation, and password history.

Conclusion

• The Passwords app is suitable for new users who prefer a basic, easy-to-use solution with zero setup.
• For existing paid password manager users, the app may lack crucial features necessary for their needs. The decision to switch depends on individual preferences and requirements.