X globally integrates support for passkeys on iOS
X, formerly known as Twitter, is expanding support for passkeys, a more secure login method, to all iOS users worldwide. Initially introduced in January, passkeys were only available to iOS users in the United States.
In an update from the X @Safety account on Monday, the company announced the global availability of passkeys as a login option for iOS users. Passkeys offer enhanced security compared to traditional passwords and have been adopted by several other popular apps and services, including PayPal, TikTok, WhatsApp, GitHub, and more. Google also made passkeys the default sign-in option for all users last fall, while Apple, Microsoft, Amazon, and other companies also support this option.
Update: Passkeys is now available as a login option for everyone globally on iOS! Try it out.https://t.co/v1LyN0l8wF
— Safety (@Safety) April 8, 2024
Passkey technology, spearheaded by Google, Apple, Microsoft, and the FIDO Alliance in collaboration with the World Wide Web Consortium, aims to revolutionize online authentication by enabling passwordless logins across various devices, operating systems, and web browsers. Unlike traditional logins that rely on a username-password combination, passkeys utilize biometric authentication methods like Face ID or Touch ID, a PIN, or a physical security authentication key to verify user logins. By consolidating the benefits of two-factor authentication (2FA) into a single step, passkeys offer a more seamless login experience while bolstering security.
For X, the implementation of passkeys could significantly enhance account security and protect users against hacking attempts by malicious actors. The social networking platform has been the target of numerous high-profile hacks in the past, including unauthorized posts on accounts belonging to prominent figures like the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission and Donald Trump Jr. Passkeys offer a robust defense mechanism against such incidents.
Moreover, the introduction of passkeys may benefit X users who previously relied on SMS-based 2FA, which the platform announced would be discontinued for non-paying users due to security concerns, particularly regarding SIM swaps. By transitioning to passkeys, users can adopt a more secure authentication method without compromising convenience.
While X has provided instructions for iOS users to start using passkeys, there is currently no information available regarding the availability of this feature for Android users. However, the introduction of passkeys underscores X’s commitment to enhancing user security and thwarting potential cyber threats.
