According to a recent report from Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, Apple is set to integrate a password management app directly into the upcoming versions of its iPhone and Mac operating systems. The app, aptly named “Passwords,” aims to compete with established password managers like 1Password and LastPass, which typically require a monthly fee for their services of generating and securely storing unique passwords. Apple plans to unveil the Passwords app during its annual Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC)on June 10th.
Currently, Apple already offers password generation and storage through iCloud Keychain, a feature that synchronizes passwords across all Apple devices as well as Windows PCs via a browser extension. However, the process of accessing and modifying passwords within iCloud Keychain, which is located within the Settings app, can be somewhat cumbersome. By introducing a dedicated app for password management on Apple devices, the company aims to streamline this experience while also providing users with an additional incentive to remain within the Apple ecosystem.
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Similar to its competitors, Apple’s Passwords app is said to categorize passwords into different sections such as accounts, WiFi networks, and Passkeys. It will also facilitate the import of passwords from rival apps and automatically fill them in when users log into websites or applications. Additionally, Passwords will be compatible with Apple’s Vision Pro headset, priced at $4,000, and will support two-factor verification codes, similar to Google Authenticator and Authy. However, it remains uncertain whether the Passwords app will offer the ability to securely store files and images alongside passwords, a feature currently available in 1Password and LastPass.
Alongside the release of Passwords, Apple is expected to unveil the next iterations of its iOS, iPadOS, MacOS, WatchOS, and VisionOS during the conference. These new software versions are rumored to incorporate innovative AI features, further enhancing the user experience across Apple devices.