Google begins testing logins without passwords

Could a smartphone be the new password? That’s the idea behind a new login option being tested at Google. 

The tech company, Tech Crunch reports, has invited select users to try out a new method of logging in to their accounts by merging their web browsing with their ever-present mobile device.

Under the new system, a user enters their email address. The site then sends a notification that will appear on their phone asking if the user is signing in from another device. To approve the action, simply press “yes.”

Google currently allows two-factor authentication as a means to protect accounts. Through the system, users input a code from their authenticator app on their phone in order to access their gmail or other account.

The company says that users can still opt to use their password when logging in, or that it might require the code if it notices anything unusual about the login attempt.

In the event that your phone is stolen, Google advises users should sign into their account from another device and remove account access from the device you no longer have in your possession.

A rep for Google confirmed the new tests, noting that “we’ve invited a small group of users to help test a new way to sign-in to their Google accounts, no password required. ‘Pizza’, ‘password’ and ‘123456’—your days are numbered.”

According to Tech Crunch, the new login method will likely be useful for those who have their mobile phone nearby when using their computer, as well as those using long, complicated passwords.

Additionally, the system is expected to help cut down on phishing.

You’ve been invited to try a new way of signing in to your Google account. Setting it up will only take a few minutes.

Enroll your Google Account
Accept the invitation for our Google Group
Go to myaccount.google.com/security
Click the invitation that says: "Tired of typing passwords? Try using your phone to sign in"
Follow the instructions to finish setup

What happens next ?

After you’ve set it up, try it and see what you think. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
You won’t need your password to sign in, but you can always use it if you want to As always, if we notice anything unusual about your sign-in you may be asked to complete an extra step or two to prove it’s really you We might reach out to you to learn more about what you think. You can leave the group if you don’t want us to contact you.

What happens if ?

Your phone’s battery dies or your phone isn’t around

You can still use your password. When you go to sign in, just click the link "Use your password instead" at the bottom of the page

You lose your phone

That's why you have a screen lock or Touch ID. Even if someone else gets your phone, that person can't unlock it
Any time you lose your phone, protect yourself by signing in on another device and going to My Account. From there, you can review your device activity and remove account access from the lost device

You want to use a new phone

If you need to change your phone, go to "Sign in and Security" in My Account. Click "Use your phone to sign in" then "Edit" your phone

You decide you want to stop using your phone to sign in

If you decide you'd rather type your password to sign in, go to "Sign in and Security" in My Account. Click "Use your phone to sign in" then "Turn off"

You’re asked to complete extra steps to sign in

If Google ever sees something suspicious about how you're signing in, you'll need to complete an extra step or two to prove it's really you. As we work to improve the experience, you may see some of those changes

You’re wondering if you’ll ever need your password again

For the moment, you’ll probably still need it, just in case your phone isn’t around or we can’t reach it. And if Google ever notices something suspicious about how you're signing in, we might ask you to enter your password.