Password management software provider 1Password today released a new service Passage by 1Password that allows businesses to build passkey authentication directly into their own apps and websites.

Passkeys are a type of passwordless authentication that relies on a user’s device, rather than a username and password combination, in order to provide access to online services. Using a passkey provides a digital credential that allows users to authenticate themselves using their device, often by unlocking it using biometrics.

The addition of Passage pivots 1Password away from only offering password storage and management and adds user identity access and management to its portfolio. This also follows an ongoing trend in the user authentication market involving passkeys. They’ve come into the limelight because they eschew the use of username/password combinations, which makes them more secure because there is less for hackers to steal. They are also more resistant to phishing attacks where attackers trick users into giving up credentials by having them log into fake sites.

Google LLC launched support for passkeys in consumer accounts this month, and it will come to Google Workspace soon. Apple Inc. and Microsoft Corp. announced passkey support during 2022 as well, and PayPal rolled out passkey integration for accounts in October.

“For passkeys to become the de facto industry standard, businesses need to be able to easily implement passwordless authentication,” said Anna Pobletts, head of passwordless at 1Password. “With Passage by 1Password, businesses can provide a more secure login experience that creates a seamless experience for customers, increases user engagement, and saves on support costs.”

The implementation of passkeys often comes with complicated setups for businesses, which must contend with cross-platform compatibility, account recovery and maintenance of the system. In order to address these issues, 1Password is offering management solutions that take these burdens off information technology teams and developers. Using the product, it can be implemented for websites and apps with only a few lines of code.

Passage by 1Password represents two products: Passkey Complete and Passkey Flex.

With Passkey Complete, customers will get a fully fledged passwordless authentication and identity management for their business that can replace the company’s current authentication flow. It includes passwordless experience, account recovery, alternative methods and ongoing support from 1Password. Complete also supports all major platforms, browsers and devices including iOS, Android, MacOS and Windows.

Passkey Flex is for businesses looking to add passkeys alongside their current authentication infrastructure in order to ease their way into adoption. It provides a simple way to introduce passkeys into their current authentication pipeline with as few lines of code as possible so that users have the “flexibility” to choose how they sign into the business. It is ideal for businesses drawing out a roadmap toward eliminating passwords but aren’t there yet.

The service was made possible by 1Password’s November 2022 acquisition of Passage, a biometric startup that raised $4 million in February 2022 led by LiveOak Venture Partners.

“At 1Password, we take a human-centric approach to security, and passkeys are instrumental in creating a safer, simpler digital future for everyone,” said 1Password Chief Executive Jeff Shiner. “Passage joined our team to further accelerate passkey adoption among developers, businesses, and customers.”

Passkey Complete and Passkey Flex allow businesses to try the service free for up to 1,000 active users per month. Above the free tier, companies pay based on usage with no subscription fees and no need for a 1Password subscription for access.

Image: 1Password