Online security is entering a password-free era, and Apple’s passkeys are leading the way. Designed to replace traditional passwords, passkeys offer a faster, safer, and easier way to sign into your favorite apps and websites. In this How to Create and Use Passkeys on iPhone step-by-step guide, we’ll show you how to create and use passkeys on your iPhone, manage them across devices, and keep your data secure in 2025.
What Are Passkeys and Why They Matter
A passkey is a modern, more secure authentication method that replaces passwords with a securely stored digital key pair: one public and one private. Unlike passwords, your private key never leaves your iPhone. When you sign in, Face ID or Touch ID confirms it’s you, and the device cryptographically proves your identity to the site or app.
Because passkeys are part of both the FIDO2 and WebAuthn standards, they’re impervious to phishing, data breaches, and password reuse—three of the biggest security risks online. Apple has integrated passkeys directly into iCloud Keychain, where they can sync securely across all your Apple devices.
Before You Begin: What You’ll Need
Before creating a passkey, make sure you meet the following criteria:
- Your iPhone is running the latest version of iOS; iOS 17 or newer is recommended.
- You have signed in with your Apple ID and have iCloud Keychain turned on.
- The website or app you are utilizing supports passkey authentication—many major platforms such as Google, PayPal, and eBay already do so.
To enable iCloud Keychain:
- Go to Settings → [Your Name] → iCloud → Passwords and Keychain → Turn On.
Step 1: How to Create a Passkey on iPhone
- Open the app or website where you want to create an account.
- Tap Create Account or go to Account Settings → Security → Add Passkey.
- When asked, select Create a Passkey
- Sign in with Face ID, Touch ID, or your passcode.
- Tap Save Passkey when the iPhone offers to store it in your iCloud Keychain.
That’s it—your passkey is created and automatically synced across your Apple devices.
Step 2: How to Sign In Using a Passkey
- On the login screen, click on Sign in with Passkey.
- Select your saved account from the AutoFill suggestion.
- Use Face ID, Touch ID, or your device passcode to authenticate.
Your private key on the iPhone will be used to authenticate you without sending any password to the website. The sign-in is instant, secure, and phishing-proof.
Step 3: Managing and Editing Passkeys
To view or edit saved passkeys:
- Open Settings → Passwords (on newer iOS versions there is also a standalone Passwords app).
- Authenticate with Face ID or Touch ID.
- Tap the account that you want to manage.
- Here, you can see details, delete the passkey, or share it via AirDrop with trusted contacts.
Apple also supports shared password groups, meaning that families or teams can securely share access to accounts without revealing passwords.
Step 4: Using Passkeys Across Devices
iCloud Keychain automatically makes passkeys available on the Mac, iPad, and even Apple Watch.
If you have to sign in on a device that isn’t an Apple device, whether that be a Windows PC or an Android phone, most websites have an option to use QR code login. You can scan this with your iPhone, approve the sign-in with Face ID, and get instant access—no typing required.
Step 5: Troubleshooting Common Issues
If a passkey doesn’t appear during login:
- Make sure that iCloud Keychain is turned on.
- Go to Settings → General → AutoFill & Passwords → Enable AutoFill.
- Update Safari or the app to its latest version, in which passkey support is still being rolled out.
For new devices, make sure that 2FA is turned on for your Apple ID before syncing passkeys.
Security Benefits of Using Passkeys
- Phishing-resistant: Passkeys only function with the website they were created for.
- Data Breach Protection: Servers store only public keys, not your secrets.
- Auto sync & backup: Encrypted end-to-end through iCloud Keychain.
- Fast authentication: No typing, guessing, or resetting forgotten passwords.
With Apple focusing on privacy and encryption, passkeys are a major improvement over passwords in terms of both security and convenience.
Final Thoughts
Apple’s system of passkeys is redefining how users protect their digital identities. With no need for passwords, iPhones make sign-ins smoother and safer. Whether managing your banking application, social media account, or cloud storage, using passkeys guarantees a seamless and secure login experience in 2025 and beyond. Get started today by enabling iCloud Keychain, creating your first passkey, and enjoying a truly passwordless future.
