X, the platform formerly known as Twitter, has begun rolling out passkey support for Android users, marking a significant step forward in account security. This follows the platform’s successful launch of passkey support for iOS users in April, expanding the availability of this cutting-edge security feature across the major mobile operating systems.
Passkeys are designed to make unauthorized remote access to accounts nearly impossible by requiring physical access to a user’s device. Unlike traditional username and password logins, which can be vulnerable to phishing and other forms of cyberattacks, passkeys leverage more secure authentication methods. Users can log in using biometric identifiers like Face ID or Touch ID, a PIN, or even a physical security key.
This relatively new technology is gaining traction across the tech industry, as it eliminates the need to depend on passwords, which have long been a weak link in digital security. By implementing passkeys, X joins a growing list of tech giants such as Apple, Microsoft, Amazon, Google, PayPal, TikTok, WhatsApp, and GitHub, all of whom have introduced passkey support within the past year.
For X users, the introduction of passkeys is particularly timely. Last year, X removed the option of SMS-based two-factor authentication (2FA) for free users, a move that left some looking for alternative security measures. With passkeys, X provides a more robust, user-friendly solution that not only enhances security but also simplifies the login process.
How to Enable Passkeys on X
Activating passkeys on your X account is straightforward:
- Open the X app and log in.
- Navigate to the “Your account” section in the app’s navigation bar.
- Select “Settings and privacy.”
- Go to “Security and account access,” and then choose “Security.”
- Under the “Additional password protection” section, select “Passkey.”
- Click on “Add a passkey” and follow the on-screen prompts to complete the setup.
By enabling passkeys, you can significantly enhance your account’s security while enjoying a more seamless login experience.
As the digital landscape continues to evolve, X’s adoption of passkey technology underscores the platform’s commitment to staying ahead in the ever-important realm of user security. With the potential to reduce phishing risks and streamline authentication, passkeys represent the future of secure logins, and X is ensuring its users are equipped with the best tools to protect their accounts.