Apple’s New Standalone Passwords App in macOS 15 and iOS 18
With the release of macOS 15 Sequoia, iOS 18, iPadOS 18, and visionOS 2, Apple has elevated Passwords from a buried feature to a standalone app. This shift simplifies access to Apple’s built-in password management tools and makes managing and securing your credentials more straightforward than ever.
Why Apple’s Passwords App?
If you’ve been using third-party password managers like 1Password, BitWarden, or Dashlane, Apple’s Passwords app may now be a viable alternative. It’s user-friendly, built directly into the OS, and simplifies the process of creating, storing, and autofilling passwords and two-factor authentication codes. And if you’re new to password managers, now is a great time to start using one. Passwords helps you avoid the risks of reused or weak passwords by securely storing unique passwords for each of your accounts.
Share Passwords with Family Members
Apple has added convenient features to make sharing credentials easier. Passwords can be shared with family members using Family Sharing, allowing you to securely pass along important logins. You can also set up other shared groups for sharing specific passwords with non-family Apple device users, making it flexible for a variety of needs.
What’s Inside the New Passwords App?
The app’s design is similar across macOS, iOS, and iPadOS, making it easy to navigate:
Organized Sidebar: Categories include All Accounts, Passkeys, Two-Factor Codes, Wi-Fi, Security, Deleted, and Shared Groups for quick access.
Two-Factor Authentication: Passwords stores and autofills two-factor codes, so you don’t need a separate app.
Family Sharing & Groups: Easily share credentials with family members or custom groups, adding convenience while keeping data secure.
Enhanced Editing & Sharing: Edit, copy, or AirDrop credentials directly from the app.
Getting Started with Passwords
Most users will find Passwords set up by default, but here are a few tips:
Enable AutoFill: In Settings > General > AutoFill & Passwords, make sure AutoFill Passwords and Passkeys is on.
Turn on iCloud Keychain: To sync passwords across devices, go to Settings > iCloud > Passwords and enable Sync This Device.
Other Browsers: For Chrome, Edge, and Firefox, install the iCloud Passwords extension to autofill passwords outside Safari.
Apple’s new Passwords app offers a robust, accessible way to manage your credentials, with the stability of iCloud Keychain’s syncing across devices. Whether you’re new to password management or looking to simplify, Passwords is worth trying.
Need Help Getting Started with Passwords?
If you’re interested in setting up Apple’s Passwords app or need assistance configuring your password management system, I’m here to help! Schedule a session with me for personalized guidance on navigating Passwords and securing your digital life.