FAQ: iCloud Keychain Passkeys in Chrome for macOS

Purpose

This FAQ provides instructions and information for MacOS & iOS users regarding passkeys stored in iCloud Keychain for account logins in the Google Chrome Browser.

screenshot of passkeys screen in google chrome

 

FAQ Section:

What did Chrome version 118 add?
Starting in October 2023, the Google Chrome Browser added support for passkeys stored in "iCloud Keychain," Apple's password management system. This allows macOS users who store credentials in iCloud Keychain to use passkeys from there to log into accounts in Chrome.
How do I use an iCloud Keychain passkey with Chrome?
  • You must be running macOS 13.5 or later
  • Grant the Chrome application permission to access passkeys stored in iCloud Keychain
  • When logging into a site that supports passkeys, you will see iCloud Keychain as an option to choose a passkey
What if I don't grant access to iCloud Keychain?
You will still see a generic iCloud Keychain option when logging in, but you have to manually select it each time rather than having the passkey automatically chosen.
How to Set Up iCloud Keychain Passkeys in Chrome?
To use an iCloud Keychain passkey in Chrome:
  1. Update to Chrome 118 or later
  2. Ensure your Mac is running macOS 13.5 or later
  3. Launch Chrome and go to Settings > Passwords
  4. Under "Sign in with iCloud Keychain", click Allow to grant Chrome permission to access passkeys
  5. Follow any additional prompts to complete iCloud Keychain setup
Using an iCloud Keychain Passkey to Sign In
Once setup, iCloud Keychain will appear as a login option when you visit sites that support passkeys:
  1. Click the passkey option or select iCloud Keychain
  2. Use Touch ID or Face ID if prompted to authenticate
  3. If you have multiple passkeys, select the one you want to use
Chrome will automatically pick the appropriate passkey based on your recent logins.
Do I need an Apple device to use iCloud Keychain passkeys?
Yes, iCloud Keychain only works on Apple devices running macOS or iOS.
How is this more secure than passwords?
Passkeys use public key cryptography instead of passwords that could be guessed or phished. They also require biometric authentication on your device.
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