Apple is removing one of the biggest obstacles to the era of password-free digital identity verification with iOS 26. The new operating system, introduced at WWDC 25, will allow passkey (password-free login key) data to be transferred securely and easily between platforms and applications.

Passkey transfer period from iPhone to Android has begun

Until now, passkeys created on Apple devices could only be synchronized between iPhone, iPad and Mac devices via iCloud Keychain. However, this system did not allow the data to be transferred to Android, Windows or third-party password managers. This situation overshadowed one of the strongest aspects of passkey technology, security, and turned into a new type of ecosystem lock for users.

With this new feature, Apple offers an end-to-end encrypted, file-free and standardized solution for the export and transfer of passkeys to different platforms in cooperation with the FIDO Alliance. According to Apple, this system can securely transfer not only passkeys but also passwords and verification codes.

No files, no risk

The most important aspect of the system is that the process is not carried out with an open CSV or JSON file as in traditional password transfer methods, but rather with an app-to-app (app-to-app) and encrypted data transfer that requires completely local authentication (such as Face ID, Touch ID). User data is never stored as an accessible file on the device. The transfer takes place directly between the system keychain and the password manager.

According to Apple’s statement, this method offers the user full control over the data and real freedom of choice regarding which identity manager to use. This also represents a serious strategic change, especially considering the Keychain structure that Apple has kept tightly closed to date.

The new transfer system will be available for macOS 26 Tahoe, iPadOS 26 and visionOS 26 along with iOS 26. The system works with the standard data format developed by the FIDO Alliance and will be compatible with popular managers such as 1Password, Bitwarden, Dashlane.

Apple will offer the feature with updates it will release this year. For users who have been hesitant to switch to the passkey system until now, this development has been the most important step to eliminate the fear of ecosystem dependency. Technical details can be accessed from the “What’s new in passkeys” session on the Apple Developer page.