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Published Jun 15, 2023

Passkeys for a passwordless future

Explore the path to a passwordless future as Anna Pobletts, Head of Passwordless at 1Password, delves into the transformative power of passkeys, addressing implementation challenges and the pivotal role of user education and experience in fostering adoption.
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  • Implementation

    Implementing passkeys on websites and platforms presents several challenges. explains that while passkeys offer a promising passwordless future, their adoption is hindered by initial confusion and the need for gradual implementation alongside traditional passwords 1. She notes that many websites are slowly integrating passkeys to familiarize users and ensure a smooth transition 2. Anna emphasizes the importance of consistency across platforms to avoid user confusion, as different sites may use varying terms and processes for passkeys 3.

    It's just going to take time for websites to feel comfortable implementing it.

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    Despite these hurdles, the push towards a passwordless future continues, driven by the need for enhanced security and user experience.

       

    Developer Tools

    Developer tools and SDKs are crucial for integrating passkeys into applications. highlights the role of Passage, a product by 1Password, designed to simplify passkey implementation for developers 4. This tool aims to provide an out-of-the-box solution, reducing the complexity of integrating passkeys into websites 5. Anna also mentions that 1Password is expanding its offerings to include developer services, aiming to become a Twilio-like entity for passkeys, which marks a shift from their traditional consumer-focused model 6.

    We're trying to be Twilio or Stripe for passkeys.

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    These advancements are part of a broader effort to eliminate passwords and enhance security through seamless authentication.

       

    Cross-Platform

    Cross-platform variability poses a significant challenge for passkey adoption. describes the hybrid flow, a method allowing passkeys to be used across different devices, which can be confusing for users 7. She clarifies that while biometrics are used for local authentication, they are not transmitted over the internet, addressing privacy concerns 8. Anna acknowledges the marketing challenge in transitioning from passwords to passkeys, emphasizing the need for user-friendly experiences to encourage adoption 9.

    It's a really hard problem. People are used to passwords.

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    Despite these challenges, the shift towards passkeys is gaining momentum, with major platforms like Google beginning to implement them.

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