How to Use Apple’s Passwords App on iOS and macOS: A Complete Guide

Apple's New Passwords App: A Comprehensive Review

With the recent updates to iOS 18 and macOS Sequoia, Apple has introduced a new application called Passwords. This is not just a new name but a complete overhaul of how users manage their passwords across all Apple devices, including iPhone, iPad, Mac, and even Windows PCs. The Passwords app replaces the previously fragmented password management system that relied on Safari and iCloud Keychain.

Transitioning to the Passwords App

Before the advent of this new app, password management was spread out across various settings, causing confusion among users. Now, with the Passwords app, all your stored passwords, verification codes, and Wi-Fi passwords are consolidated into one accessible location. But how does it work?

Finding and Editing Passwords

When you launch the Passwords app post-upgrade, your existing passwords will automatically transfer to the new platform. Here’s how to navigate the app:

• Upon launching the app, you'll need to verify your identity using your password or Face ID.
• The interface is user-friendly, looking similar on both iOS and macOS.
• In addition to stored passwords, you’ll see entries for verification codes and Wi-Fi passwords, enhancing accessibility.

Click on any password entry to view details, and you can manually update information by selecting Edit. While the app does not allow tagging or grouping of passwords, you can add notes and run searches based on these notes. This feature is particularly helpful for marking frequently used passwords.

Security Alerts

The app provides critical security features. Users receive warnings if passwords have been reused or compromised in data breaches. To check your password security:

• On the main page, tap Security.
• Look for red messages for passwords that need attention.

If you find a compromised password, you can easily change it by long-pressing and selecting Change Password, leading you directly to the necessary website.

Effortless Login with Autofill

For a seamless experience, the Passwords app offers autofill capabilities for logging into apps or websites. To enable autofill:

• Go to Settings (iOS) or System Settings (macOS).
• Select General > AutoFill & Passwords.
• Enable the toggles for AutoFill Passwords and Passkeys.

Adding and Sharing Passwords

The process for adding new passwords is straightforward:

• Select the + button to add new login credentials.
• Once added, the app can prompt you to save passwords automatically as you log into various sites.

Moreover, the Passwords app supports the use of passkeys, a modern method of authentication that utilizes your device's unlock method, enhancing convenience and security.

Password Sharing Feature

If you need to share access to a password, the Passwords app allows you to do so via AirDrop. Here’s how:

• Choose a password and click the share button.
• For group sharing, create a group by navigating to Shared Groups and adding contacts.
• Only share with trusted contacts, as this method grants access to your login credentials.

Conclusion: Is the Passwords App Right for You?

Apple's Passwords app presents a user-friendly option for managing passwords, particularly for those deeply invested in the Apple ecosystem. However, it may lack the extensive features that third-party password managers offer, such as document storage and broader compatibility with non-Apple devices.

For those who primarily use Apple devices and seek a simple solution for password management, this app is a solid choice. But if you find yourself needing more robust features or working across varied platforms, it might be worthwhile to consider a dedicated password manager.