Apple, Google, Microsoft to implement standard for common passwordless sign-in

Apple, Google, and Microsoft will introduce a standard for passwordless sign-in, simplifying user experience by allowing access to credentials across devices without needing to re-enroll. Authentication can be done on one device to sign in on another, regardless of the platform, enhancing security and convenience.

The three companies announced their intention to deploy a standard for common passwordless sign-in capabilities developed by the FIDO Alliance and the World Wide Web Consortium. Apple, Google and Microsoft already support passwordless log-ins (e.g. via fingertips, face scan), but users have to sign in to each website or app on each device before being able to use the functionality. With the new standard deployed, users can automatically access their FIDO sign-in credentials on many devices, without having to re-enrol every account. They can also use FIDO authentication on their mobile device to sign in to an app or website on a nearby device, regardless of the operating system or browser used. This comes with a simplified user experience (no need to use passwords anymore) and more secure sign-in methods, according to the FIDO Alliance. The three companies are expected to make these functionalities available ‘over the course of the coming year’.