Secure and fast: Facebook introduces passkeys

Facebook users on Apple devices can now look forward to a new login method. Meta has announced that the platform now supports passkeys. This allows users to log in without a password on iPhones and iPads. The new process is intended to be not only more convenient but also more secure.

The introduction of passkeys is part of a larger movement in the tech industry toward passwordless authentication. Apple has supported this technology since 2022, and other platforms are following suit. Facebook, one of the largest online services, is now using this method. The advantage: more security, less effort. Passkeys use biometric features like Face ID or Touch ID for identity verification, making traditional passwords obsolete.

Facebook supports passkeys on Apple devices

Facebook initially allows login via passkey only on Apple mobile devices, i.e., iPhones and iPads. Passkeys work via the device's biometric authentication. Users can log in with a fingerprint or facial scan instead of entering a password. Once configured, a passkey is securely stored in iCloud Keychain Access. This makes it available on all Apple devices linked to the same Apple ID account, making it particularly convenient to use.

Set up a passkey for Facebook

To set up a passkey for Facebook, go to the "Settings" menu in the app on your iPhone or iPad. From there, select "Account Center" and then "Password & Security." Under "Passkey," you can enable the new login method. Alternatively, the option may appear the next time you log in.

Please note: This feature is currently being rolled out, so some users will have immediate access while others will have to wait!

Messenger to receive passkey support soon

Meta plans to make passkeys available for Facebook Messenger as well. The company hasn't yet announced a specific date. Once the feature is available, you'll be able to use the same passkey you set up for your Facebook account for Messenger. The transition to passkeys will be phased in.

Desktop remains out for now

Currently, the passkey feature is only available on mobile devices. Anyone who wants to log in to Facebook on a computer will still need to use a username and password. An expansion to desktop systems has not yet been announced.

Technical background: How passkeys work

Passkeys are based on a two-key system. One key is stored on the user's device, the second on the Facebook server. Only if both keys match is the login approved. The data is not transmitted but verified locally. This makes passkeys significantly better protected against phishing, malware, and similar attacks. Compared to traditional passwords, this method offers a higher level of protection. Since no combination of characters is stored or sent over the network, criminals cannot intercept login credentials.

Passkey instead of password: A clear recommendation for Apple users

With the introduction of passkeys, Facebook is taking a sensible step toward greater security and user-friendliness. If you use an iPhone or iPad, you can switch to the new method now. Setup is straightforward, and everyday use is significantly more convenient. Traditional passwords are still required on other devices, but in the long term, the passkey could become the standard method for logging into Facebook. If you regularly access Facebook via your iPhone or iPad, it's worth trying out the new feature. It makes your account more secure and saves you time every time you log in. (Image: Shutterstock / Tada Images)