X has introduced 'passkeys' login option for iOS users in the United States, marking a substantial departure from conventional password-based authentication methods.
"Today we’re excited to launch Passkeys as a login option for our US-based users on iOS! A passkey is a new, easy to use, and secure way to log in to your account - all from your device. Passkeys are more secure than traditional passwords since they’re individually generated by your device for each account," the company's posted on X through its Safety handle.
Passkeys serve as a modern alternative to conventional passwords, leveraging your device's inherent authentication methods to facilitate seamless logins across various platforms such as Gmail, PayPal, or iCloud.
This means you can effortlessly access your accounts by simply activating Face ID on your iPhone, utilizing the fingerprint sensor on your Android phone, or employing Windows Hello on a PC.
X in a blog on its site said, "A passkey is a new, easy-to-use, and secure way to log in to your account – all from your device. Passkeys are more secure than traditional passwords since they’re individually generated by your device for each account."
It said passkeys are created using the principles of public key cryptography.
"When you register an account, your device generates a unique key pair – one public and one private – for each account. The public key is shared and stored on X, while the private key remains on your device. Your passkey is never shared with X to ensure maximum security, and further reducing the likelihood of unauthorized account access.
"Once you are enrolled in passkey on your device, you can log in to your account by choosing the passkey option instead of entering a traditional password. Your device will securely connect with X using the stored public key to authenticate your identity," it said.
The feature made its debut on iOS devices in September 2022 and became accessible on Google accounts in May of the same year. The approach combines the advantages of two-factor authentication (2FA) into a singular, streamlined step.
X has not revealed the schedule for implementing passkey technology on Android devices, desktop operating systems, or in other geographical regions.
"Your passkey is never shared with X to ensure maximum security, and further reducing the likelihood of unauthorized account access," it, however, said.
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