As reported by Digital Trends, Google has today announced that iPhones can now function as physical two-factor security keys for logging into the company’s own services like Gmail in Chrome. This authentication method, Google claims, is a lot more secure than ordinary two-factor prompts, as it requires the iPhone to be physically in the computer’s proximity.
Two-factor authentication is more of a necessity than ever, but the toughest hurdle is encouraging users to set it up. Without it being built into accounts by default, 2FA only gains significant uptake when it is handed to users on a plate, and is easy to implement. People are just about coming round to understanding SMS 2FA as a rule, but what Google are offering is even more secure to account holders, and offers stronger protection and security.
Hardware security keys are an excellent way of easily adding an extra layer of security without being delayed when accessing your accounts. One drawback, however, is the fact that the set-up process might still be a barrier for less tech savvy users.”