Apple will reportedly launch a new Passwords app when it hosts the 2024 Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) on June 10. According to the report, the tech giant could introduce its password saving and tracking platform with iOS 18, iPadOS 18 and macOS 15 updates. The app is reportedly powered by iCloud Keychain, a native service that syncs passwords and account information across Apple devices. Namely, the Cupertino-based company will also announce several new artificial intelligence (AI) features for several of its apps and services.
Apple’s new password app
According to a report by Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, the new app will make its debut during the keynote session of the WWDC event. Citing people familiar with the app’s development, the report claims that the Passwords app will be able to store and track user passwords and generate new passwords.
Based on reports, it appears that the feature will be powered by iCloud Keychain. It is a service that synchronizes passwords and account credentials across all Apple devices. However, the service can only be accessed through the Settings app or when a user tries to sign in to an account. The new Passwords app will likely offer users an interface for the feature, as well as more control over its functions.
The Passwords app will reportedly also include authenticator functions. With support for check codes, it can be used to set up two-factor authentication. Additionally, the Passwords app is said to categorize user credentials into different categories such as Wi-Fi networks, accounts, and passwords. There could be others, but there is no information about them for now.
With this move, Apple could be aiming to establish its own password management platform. Currently, third-party applications such as 1Password, LastPass, and Proton Pass offer password management functions. The tech giant may reportedly allow users to import their password data from third-party apps into its Passwords app to ease the transition.
However, Apple will have to offer a feature-packed app to lure people away from third-party apps. For example, 1Password offers password sharing, file storage, a vault and bookmark organization, and additional field support. The full range of Passwords features is currently unknown. They will be known only when Apple officially launches the app.
