How to use the Apple Passwords app

Engadget - Apr 12th, 2025
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Apple has introduced a new Passwords app with iOS 18, iPadOS 18, and macOS Sequoia, significantly enhancing the user experience for managing passwords and authentication credentials. Unlike the previous system where password management was hidden within Safari settings or iCloud Keychain menus, the Passwords app offers a standalone, dedicated platform that simplifies the process. Users can now store and manage login credentials, passkeys, Wi-Fi passwords, and two-factor authentication codes all in one secure location. The app supports features like Autofill for seamless login experiences across Safari and third-party apps, and it syncs data across devices via iCloud Keychain, ensuring consistency and security.

This development represents a major step forward in Apple's efforts to improve user security and convenience. By consolidating password management into a single, user-friendly app, Apple addresses the common pain points associated with digital security management. The incorporation of passkeys and automated generation of verification codes enhances protection against threats such as phishing. Furthermore, the app's integration with iCloud Keychain ensures that users have access to their credentials across all Apple devices, reinforcing Apple's ecosystem advantage. The Passwords app's launch aligns with Apple's broader push towards passwordless authentication and participation in the FIDO Alliance, signaling a commitment to future-proofing digital security measures.

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RATING

7.0
Fair Story
Consider it well-founded

The article provides a comprehensive and clear overview of Apple's new Passwords app, highlighting its features, functionality, and security measures. It excels in clarity and readability, making it accessible to a broad audience. The timeliness of the topic aligns with current discussions on digital security, and it holds practical value for Apple users.

However, the article lacks transparency in source attribution and could benefit from a more balanced discussion that includes potential drawbacks or comparisons with other password managers. The absence of cited sources affects its credibility, and the coverage is primarily focused on the app's positive aspects.

While the article is engaging and informative, its impact on broader digital security discussions is limited. It could enhance its public interest and engagement by incorporating interactive elements, expert insights, or user experiences. Overall, the article is a valuable resource for Apple users but could improve in areas of transparency, balance, and source quality.

RATING DETAILS

8
Accuracy

The article presents a generally accurate overview of the Apple Passwords app, detailing its introduction with iOS 18, iPadOS 18, and macOS Sequoia. It accurately describes the app's features, such as storing login credentials, passkeys, Wi-Fi passwords, and verification codes. The explanation of the app's security measures, including end-to-end encryption and biometric authentication, is consistent with Apple's practices.

However, there are areas that require further verification, such as the extent of security vulnerabilities and patches, like the recent fix for a vulnerability that left users exposed to phishing attacks. The article's mention of features like importing passwords from other services, which are planned but not yet implemented, also needs confirmation.

The article does not cite specific sources for its claims, which impacts its verifiability. Despite this, the information aligns well with known Apple practices and features, suggesting a high level of accuracy.

7
Balance

The article focuses primarily on the features and benefits of the Apple Passwords app, providing a comprehensive overview of its functionality and security measures. This focus on positive aspects may suggest a slight bias towards promoting the app, especially given the lack of discussion on potential drawbacks or limitations compared to other password managers.

While the article does mention that the app is not as robust as other password managers, it does not provide specific comparisons or critiques. This omission of a broader perspective on the app's place in the market limits the balance of viewpoints presented.

Overall, the article provides a detailed look at the app's features but could benefit from a more balanced discussion that includes potential criticisms or alternative perspectives.

9
Clarity

The article is well-structured and clearly presents the features and functionalities of the Apple Passwords app. The language is straightforward and easy to understand, making it accessible to a general audience.

The logical flow of information, from accessing the app to its various features and security measures, is well-organized. The use of subheadings and step-by-step instructions enhances readability and comprehension.

The tone remains neutral throughout, focusing on informative content rather than persuasive language. Overall, the article excels in clarity, providing a comprehensive and easy-to-follow guide to the app.

6
Source quality

The article does not explicitly cite sources, which affects the credibility and reliability of the information presented. It appears to be based on general knowledge of Apple's practices and the features of the Passwords app, which are widely known and documented.

The lack of attributed sources makes it difficult to assess the authority or potential biases of the information. While the content aligns with Apple's known features and security measures, the absence of direct citations or references to official Apple announcements or documentation weakens the source quality.

To improve source quality, the article could include references to Apple's official statements, documentation, or expert analyses to support its claims.

5
Transparency

The article lacks transparency in terms of source attribution and the basis for its claims. It does not disclose the methodology or sources used to gather information, leaving readers to assume the information is based on general knowledge or unofficial insights.

There is no disclosure of potential conflicts of interest or any affiliations that could impact the impartiality of the article. This lack of transparency makes it challenging for readers to assess the reliability and objectivity of the content.

To enhance transparency, the article should provide clear citations, disclose any potential biases, and explain the methodology behind the information presented.

Sources

  1. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wtIzTbEIRO0
  2. https://www.techradar.com/pro/security/a-worrying-apple-password-app-vulnerability-reportedlyleft-users-exposed-for-months
  3. https://www.macrumors.com/guide/ios-18-passwords/
  4. https://support.apple.com/en-us/120758
  5. https://apps.apple.com/us/app/passwords/id6473799789