Apple’s Passwords app is exclusively designed for Apple products, such as the iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Vision Pro. It will also be accessible on Windows via the iCloud for Windows app. However, it’s important to note that support for Google’s Android and Chrome is conspicuously absent. Despite the existing iCloud Passwords app available on the Chrome Web Store, Apple made no mention of expanding password support to these platforms. Apple did not respond to requests for comment on this omission.
This lack of broad platform support could limit the appeal of Apple’s Passwords app. The four password manager companies I spoke with—LastPass, Dashlane, Bitwarden, and Proton—emphasised the importance of cross-compatibility.
“What users appreciate most about Dashlane is that it seamlessly works across any platform, any device, any time,” says Dashlane’s chief product officer, Donald Hasson. “The vast majority of our users have Dashlane on multiple platforms. Having options, especially regarding where and how you save your credentials, is key.”
Proton Pass product lead Son Nguyen also raises concerns about Apple’s track record with cross-platform support. Nguyen points to the limited functionality of iCloud for Windows and Apple’s conflicts with Google over SMS standards, which raises questions about the usability of the Passwords app across different platforms. These concerns are echoed by other password manager companies, highlighting the potential challenges of Apple’s approach.
The future of third-party password managers
Despite the introduction of Apple’s new offering, the creators of third-party password managers remain steadfast. LastPass CEO Karim Toubba points out that their users tend to remain loyal once they recognise the true value of the application. This “stickiness” implies that even with a free Apple alternative, there is still a robust market for comprehensive, multi-platform password managers.
Apple’s Passwords app is likely to attract those deeply integrated into the Apple ecosystem, providing a smooth and free solution for managing passwords on Apple devices. However, if you require a password manager that functions across a range of devices and platforms, Apple’s Passwords app may not fully meet your requirements.
In conclusion, while Apple’s entry into the password management space is significant, it’s important to remember that third-party apps like LastPass, Dashlane, Bitwarden, and Proton still offer compelling reasons to remain relevant. Their cross-platform support and advanced features continue to provide value that Apple’s Passwords app might not be able to match, especially for users who require broader compatibility. This underscores the enduring appeal and unique selling points of these third-party password managers.
