iPhone users can now use Android tech to unlock their devices
Goodbye physical security keys
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Googleis making it easier for iPhone and iPad users to verify sign-ins with the announcement thatAppledevice owners will now be able to use their Android device as a security key.
The search giant recently revealed that it had developed a new Bluetooth-based protocol which allows smartphones running Android 7.0 or later toact as a security keyfor two-factor authentication.
According toGoogle, 100,000 users have already started using their Android smartphones as security keys.
The technology is currently limited to Chrome sign-ins but now Apple device owners will be able to utilize their Android smartphone to sign-in without the need for a physical security key.
Security keys
Security keysoffer extra protection to users that are concerned their devices might get hacked and even Google’s own employees used them toprevent phishing attacks.
When the company announced that modern Android smartphones can now be used as security keys, it also highlighted the fact that its OS is nowFIDO2 Certified. FIDO2 is already supported by the world’s leading browsers including Chrome,MicrosoftEdge and Mozilla Firefox with preview support available on Apple’sSafari.
iPhone and iPad users looking to use their Android device as a security key must first have the Google Smart Lock app installed on their iOS device. However, for now Google’s Android security key can only be used to sign-in to Chrome but the company could extend this functionality to other apps and services down the road.
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ViaTechCrunch
After working with the TechRadar Pro team for the last several years, Anthony is now the security and networking editor at Tom’s Guide where he covers everything from data breaches and ransomware gangs to the best way to cover your whole home or business with Wi-Fi. When not writing, you can find him tinkering with PCs and game consoles, managing cables and upgrading his smart home.
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