Passwords Are Being Removed On Google Apps Including YouTube

Google has made a significant announcement during Cyber Security Month.

If you're anything like me, you probably have multiple passwords for various platforms, and it can be quite challenging to remember them all.

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However, this won't be a problem anymore when it comes to Google and its applications like YouTube, as the search engine aims to completely eliminate the use of passwords.

In a blog post published on Google's official blog on October 10th, the tech giant unveiled its plans to make all of its apps compatible with passkeys.

"Earlier this year we rolled out support for passkeys, a simpler and more secure way to sign into your accounts online," the piece explained.

Computerworld

"We’ve received really positive feedback from our users, so today we’re making passkeys even more accessible by offering them as the default option across personal Google Accounts."

Following the trend set by other apps, individuals will soon have the option to use their fingerprints and facial recognition (Face ID) to log into their accounts.

This not only speeds up the login process significantly but is also touted as more secure. Google claims that passkeys use a form of cryptography that enhances their security.

Additionally, they are described as resistant to phishing attacks.

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However, Google is not entirely doing away with passwords at this point, as users will still have the choice to continue using them for the time being.

"We know that new technologies take time to catch on — so passwords may be around for a little while," the blog further explained.

Uber has also made a recent announcement about its intention to utilize more passkeys, and they have praised this move as a 'win-win' for both the company and its customers.

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Ramsin Betyyousef, a senior director of engineering at Uber said of the change, as per The Independent: "We’ve seen great results from launching passkeys across our apps and encourage all users to adopt passkeys.

"Ultimately this is a win-win for Uber and Uber’s customers."

In another development, Apple abandoned the use of passwords in September 2022. During the announcement, Apple's vice president of internet technologies, Darin Adler, referred to passkeys at WWDC as a 'next-generation credential that's more secure, easier to use, and aspires to permanently replace passwords.'

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"With the passkey, you’ll be able to walk up to a non-Apple device, and sign-in to a website or app using just your iPhone."

"We look forward to a passwordless future," he added.

While many have praised the convenience of passkeys, the change being implemented across major brands may not sit well with some users, particularly those who share their Netflix passwords with family and friends.

Allure

The streaming service had previously issued warnings about cracking down on password sharing earlier this year. However, it seems that, fortunately for some, there has been no indication of Netflix making a shift to passkeys in the near future.