How to create and use Passkeys on Apple iPhone: A step-by-step guide

Apple is pushing the password-free future forward with Passkeys, a secure and convenient way to sign in to websites and apps. Instead of remembering dozens of passwords, you can now log in using Face ID, Touch ID, or your device passcode — no typing, no guessing, and no phishing risks. For those unaware, Passkeys are automatically encrypted, stored safely in your iCloud Keychain, and synced across your Apple devices signed in with the same Apple ID. However, you’ll need two-factor authentication and iCloud Keychain turned on to use them.


Here’s how to set up, save, and use passkeys on your iPhone.


What are Passkeys and why they matter


Passkeys replace traditional passwords with a pair of cryptographic keys — one public and one private — created on your device. The private key never leaves your iPhone, making it more secure than passwords, which can be stolen or phished.


Websites and apps that support passkeys can also generate them automatically for your account. These keys are invisible to users, stored safely in the Passwords section of Settings, and can even be used across devices.


How to create and save a Passkey on iPhone

Follow these steps to create a passkey for a supported app or website:

• Open the website or app on your iPhone and go to the sign-in screen.
• If you’re creating a new account, tap Sign Up or the link for creating a new account.
• If you already have an account, sign in using your existing credentials, then go to your account settings.
• Look for the passkey option. When prompted to save a passkey for the account, tap Continue.
• Authenticate your choice. Use Face ID, Touch ID, or your device passcode to confirm.
• Your passkey will now be saved automatically in your iCloud Keychain and linked to your Apple ID.

Note: If you don’t see an option for passkeys, the website or app may not yet support them.


You can also store a passkey on a hardware security key by choosing “Other options” or “Save on another device,” and following the on-screen instructions.


How to sign in using a Passkey on iPhone


Once your passkey is saved, logging in becomes seamless.

• Open the supported website or app and go to the sign-in page.
• Tap the account name field. A suggested account will appear near the top of your keyboard or at the bottom of the screen.
• Tap the suggestion, then verify using Face ID or Touch ID.
• If biometrics aren’t set up, you can enter your device passcode.
• The system will automatically use your saved passkey to complete the sign-in.
• No password typing, no OTPs — just one tap and you’re in.

How to use a Passkey saved on iPhone to sign in on another device


Even if you’re using a non-Apple device — like a public computer or your friend’s laptop — you can still access your accounts securely with your iPhone.

• On the other device, visit the website or open the app and enter your username.
• Select “Other options” or “Passkey from nearby device” on the sign-in screen.
• A QR code will appear on that device.
• Use your iPhone camera to scan the QR code.
• Authenticate using Face ID, Touch ID, or your passcode.

The sign-in will complete automatically using your passkey stored in iCloud Keychain — without revealing any sensitive information.