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For years, Apple provided its built-in Keychain password manager hidden in the Settings app. This tool allowed automatic password generation and storage in the Passwords section, but it could often be cumbersome when a user needed to quickly manage specific logins.
Now, in iOS 18, iPadOS 18, and macOS Sequoia, passwords have split into their own dedicated app called Passwords. Apple hopes this change will make managing credentials more convenient for its users, but one question is on everyone’s mind right now: Does it offer enough to replace paid password managers? Let’s talk about it.
Weighing the costs and benefits
When you first open Passwords, you’ll find a layout very similar to the Reminders app, with two rows of categories: Everything, Passkeys, Codes, Wi-Fi, Security, and Deleted. It is very simple and easy to navigate.
The app allows users to view saved credentials, manage access keys, create rotating verification codes, review saved Wi-Fi logins, and receive alerts for passwords recently exposed in a data breach. With the addition of family password sharing, the app is a handy mash-up of features that used to exist elsewhere, now in one place, accessible from any signed-in Apple device.
But there are some disadvantages.
Similar to a password manager like 1Password, saved credentials in the Passwords app can be accessed from any signed-in Apple device. You can even access your saved passwords in Windows through iCloud for Windows. However, there is no browser or Android support. The Passwords app is exclusive to Apple devices with the exception of the iCloud app for Windows. This can be an inconvenience if you use Android and Mac or a mix of mixed platform devices.
Additionally, if you use a paid service like 1Password, you know that it provides features beyond basic password storage, including secure notes, document storage, cross-browser integration, two-factor authentication, etc. These features are not offered in Apple’s free Passwords app.
Pack
In conclusion, the Password application is currently in its infancy. Its basic, easy-to-use layout is clearly aimed at people who have never used a password manager before.
If you’re already using a service like 1Password and find it effective, I don’t see a compelling reason to switch to Passwords even though it’s free. You’ll find Although the app is primarily focused on basic login management, it could be a convenient choice for those new to password managers or those who prefer an integrated solution, as Passwords is available for iOS 18, iPadOS 18, macOS Sequoia, and even visionOS. 2. The decision ultimately depends on your needs and preferences.
However, I’m excited to see where the app goes. Will you be using the new Passwords app in iOS 18?
O Safety bite: Security Bite is a weekly security-focused column on 9to5Mac. Every week, Arin Waichulis provides privacy information, reveals vulnerabilities, or sheds light on emerging threats across Apple’s vast ecosystem of more than 2 billion active deviceswith to help you stay safe.
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