Google tests way to log in to account without password
Google is testing a login method that will no longer require the user to enter their password. Instead, they log in with the smartphone to which the user must already be logged in, and receive a confirmation prompt.
The new login method has not been widely communicated, but appears to be part of a silent test. This is evidenced by the fact that a Google user has gained access to the new feature, Android Police discovered based on a Reddit thread by Rohit Paul. The new method of logging in requires a suitable smartphone, whereby Google recommends screen savers, although the latter is not mandatory. It is unclear which smartphones are exactly suitable, but Paul’s Nexus 6P works in any case.
The system works by allowing the user to access the account on another device via the smartphone. For example, if you want to log in to your laptop, you will receive a confirmation question on your smartphone; the user must indicate that he or she actually wants to log in to the device, after which no further actions are required. The user is therefore automatically logged in to the laptop after confirmation, without needing the password.
It is unclear to what extent Google wants to use the system widely. The test will probably show whether this way of logging in is suitable for public release. Because the internet giant has not released any information itself, it is unclear how long the test will take.