In this post you will learn what the Apple Passwords app does, how it stores passwords and passkeys, and how it helps keep your accounts secure across your Apple devices. We will also explain how to use the app to share your passwords with other trusted users.
What is Apple Passwords?
Apple passwords is very similar to the keychain that once existed in the iOS and MacOS settings. Originally a password manager built in to the settings, it is now an app called Passwords.
Even though it is now an app, it still fully integrates itself into the OS for smooth and seamless operation.
The app can:
- Save website and app passwords
- Save WiFi network passwords
- Suggest strong passwords when creating accounts
- Automatically fill passwords into apps and websites
- Store passkeys as a newer alternative to traditional passwords
- Warn you if a password has been reused or exposed in a data breach
- Generate two-factor authentication verification codes
- Store shared passwords for families or groups
Use the folder icon on the bottom left to initiate sharing. The search function on the bottom middle can be used to find a password quickly. Tap the + on the bottom right to add a password manually.
Red ! Shows passwords that may have appeared in a data leak.
You can also add passwords manually. If you want them to autofill, be sure to put the website URL as well. Above is an example of a password that would be saved in this list.
It is important to remember that this is where your account information is saved to when Safari asks if you want to save your password. It can be also used to autofill app passwords.
In addition, you can use this app as an authenticator to set up multi factor authentication. This will allow you to receive a login code directly to this app instead of needing a third party authenticator app.
How to share your passwords
Apple has added a few features that will allow you to share your saved information with family or trusted friends.
It is important to recognize that you are giving someone else access to your personal information when sharing these. Never share your passwords with strangers or anyone you do not trust.
Apple allows us to set up groups within the Passwords app. This can be done with the bottom left folder icon. This will prompt group setup.
Group setup can also be done by selecting the share with family prompt, and is an option when selecting share for a specific password.
The group allows you to share any passwords/passkeys you’ve selected with anyone else in the group, although everyone must have an Apple ID to join the group, and must have the Passwords app on their phone.
You can also airdrop your passwords/passkeys to other iPhones if you want, adding that information to their iCloud keychain.
Summary
The Passwords app is Apple’s built-in password manager designed to securely store and organize your usernames, passwords, passkeys, Wi-Fi passwords, and verification codes in one place.
It works across Apple devices like the iPhone, iPad, and Mac using iCloud sync. It allows your saved logins to automatically appear on all of your devices.
The Passwords app is closely tied to Apple’s security features, including Face ID, Touch ID, and device encryption. This helps you keep sensitive information protected.
It acts like a secure digital keychain for your online accounts. And, it makes it easier to sign in without needing to remember every password yourself.
If you have specific questions about how to use and share with apple passwords, or if our terminology isn’t clear, please use our contact form to send us a message. Thank you!
