Apple, Google, Microsoft and World Wide Web consortium back passwordless sign-in initiative

The three largest computing, mobile, and browser companies are teaming up to back a passwordless sing-in initiative that could remove one of the biggest pain points and security threats today. Weak passwords are responsible for 80% of breaches and hacks, so Apple, Google, Microsoft are leading the charge in a password-free sign-in.

The FIDO alliance will enable users to sign into websites and apps using their smartphones for authentication, removing the need for any password or PIN code. This ostensibly eradicates the need to have multiple complex passwords for varying websites, or the chance that reused passwords leak and allow unauthorized access.

Users will also be able to automatically access their FiDO sign-in credentials, or “passkeys,” across multiple devices — including new ones — without having to re-enroll every account adding more convenience to an already secure system.

“Working with the industry to establish new, more secure sign-in methods that offer better protection and eliminate the vulnerabilities of passwords is central to our commitment to building products that offer maximum security and a transparent user experience — all with the goal of keeping users’ personal information safe,” said Kurt Knight, Apple’s senior director of platform product marketing, in a press release.

Having the largest smartphone, PC, and browser companies onboard with this initiative can ensure wider adoption and standardization leading to a more secure internet and app ecosystem for all users.