Say Goodbye to Passwords? Exploring Passkeys on Mac and iPhone!

Have you noticed the introduction of passkeys in the Passwords app? What exactly are they? Do we need to memorize access keys now?

For many years, computer security relied on the good old “username + password” combination. Then, two-factor authentication came along, often via an SMS code or a token. Now, Apple is promoting a new method: passkeys.

What is a Passkey?

A passkey is a modern, password-free authentication method. It uses a two-key cryptography system: a public key, which is sent to the online service, and a private key, securely stored on your device (Mac, iPhone, iPad…). To log in, you simply use Face ID, Touch ID, or your passcode. It’s your device, in this case, your iPhone, that validates access by cryptographically proving your identity.

How is it Different from a Password?

Unlike passwords, which can be reused across various sites, passkeys are:

• automatically generated for each service,
• linked to a device or an iCloud account.

They operate on an opposite logic: instead of providing a secret word, you prove that you own a key.

What are the Benefits?

1. Enhanced security: it’s impossible to have a passkey stolen through phishing or data breaches.
2. Ultra-fast connection: there’s no need to type anything, just a quick biometric confirmation is enough (Face ID or Touch ID).
3. No possibility of reuse: each key is unique to a service.
4. Increasing compatibility: Apple, Google, Microsoft, Amazon, PayPal, LinkedIn, eBay, and more services are adopting it.

What are the Limitations?

1. Locked ecosystem: the keys are often synchronized via iCloud. This works well among Apple devices… but can become complex if you also have devices running Windows or Android.
2. Not all sites are ready: while major services (Google, Apple…) have adopted it, smaller ones have not yet.
3. In case of device loss: without a backup or contingency plan, you could be locked out. We explain the plan B below.

How It Works on Mac/iPhone

It’s automatic:

• You use the Passwords app, of course: it stores and syncs your passkeys across your Apple devices.
• When a site offers to use a passkey, accept and let macOS/iOS automatically create it.
• Use Face ID, Touch ID, or your passcode as a means of validation.

Plan B in Case of Loss or Theft

If you lose your iPhone, your Mac, or access to iCloud, you need a way to recover your accounts. For this:

• Print your Apple backup keys from your Apple ID account settings. Keep them in a safe place.
• Note your recovery options (secondary email address, phone number, or trusted contact).
• You might also consider a physical security key, like a YubiKey, if you use multiple platforms. Check compatibility before purchasing.

Passkeys: A Future Without Passwords?

Passkeys are not just a passing trend. They are supported by the biggest names in tech, and Apple is integrating them more deeply into macOS and iOS. They make your connections more secure. They are also simpler and faster.
But like any technology, they are not magical: you need to ensure they are well backed up and have a contingency plan.
The good news? If you’re in the Apple ecosystem, you already have everything you need to get started.