Google Passkeys on iOS: How it works properly
Google Chrome's password manager is widely used. Now it finally synchronises reliably with iOS devices - even passkeys work. Here's how to set it up.
With the latest update, Google is making it easier for you to use Passkeys on iOS. Use and synchronisation are also more convenient and reliable under iPadOS. Access is via the Chrome browser.
According to a Google announcement, the data transfer works in both directions. This means that passkeys created in Chrome on iOS or iPadOS are automatically available on all other devices - and vice versa.
iOS isolation is history
Until now, there was only one isolated solution for iOS and iPadOS, which annoyed many users. Passkeys that you created on Android, Windows or macOS could not be used on iPhones or iPads. Google's password manager also saved passkeys from Chrome under iOS or iPadOS in Apple's keychain, which then synchronised them.
In order for this to work across devices, you first have to make a few settings - but only once. Small restriction: It only works from iOS and iPadOS 17, i.e. iPhone XR/XS or newer.
How to activate the sync
To set up synchronisation, you must add Chrome as a source in the settings under "General > Autofill & Passwords".
Source: Florian Bodoky
In addition, you must set a six-digit PIN, which you set when you create the first passkey in the Google password manager. According to Google, passkeys are protected by end-to-end encryption. On iOS, the PIN is required to enable access to new devices - on Android, however, this is done more conveniently via fingerprint or facial recognition.
I've been tinkering with digital networks ever since I found out how to activate both telephone channels on the ISDN card for greater bandwidth. As for the analogue variety, I've been doing that since I learned to talk. Though Winterthur is my adoptive home city, my heart still bleeds red and blue.