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Writer's pictureZack Newbauer

Using Apple Passwords: Why and How

I don't think I would have prioritized this personally, but having worked for a tech company, we had to use a password manager (1password). Because it was installed on my computer and phone, I still started adopting it. Eventually it became easier when signing up for a new service to just have it generate the credentials and remember them, later meaning I'd only need to use Face ID to have have 1password recall the correct login information (which were also much more secure). I've also run into fishy looking logins to different accounts over the years, encouraging me to get away from the single password I used to use for everything.


I've been using ChatGPT to leverage AI to help with a number of tasks, like:

  • "I'm wondering if I can go on a camping trip somewhere highly reviewed that is about two hours north of San Francisco. Then I'll need to keep driving north and drop my friend off at the Amtrak station so they can be back in the city by noon. Can you please create an itenerary including which Amtrak station we'll need to drop him off at at what time to catch the bus (please reference Amtrak schedules)"

  • "[inserted stream of consciousness about a desire to offer a 10-day movement series with all the factors I currently have considered].... can you help outline a business plan for the next 90 days?"

  • "Here's a dynamic that keeps coming up for me in conflict, can you reference counseling resources and make some observations about what might be going on, and ask any follow up questions that you think would be helpful to consider?"


Having left my company...


I was now paying $35 per year for 1password.

Which I was willing to do because I do find it so helpful, and enjoy the peace of mind of not getting hacked. But now that Apple Passwords has gotten a facelift, it makes so much sense to switch and save that money. The only hurdle was the actual task of switching (which ended up taking about 8 minutes)


Here are the instructions I followed:

Migrating from 1Password to Apple Passwords


Why Consider Apple Passwords Now?


Apple Passwords, integrated into the iCloud Keychain, has matured into a feature-rich password manager, offering:

• Seamless Integration: Works natively across all Apple devices and syncs via iCloud.

• Expanded Features: Supports two-factor authentication (2FA), secure sharing, password monitoring, and autofill in apps and websites.

• Cross-Platform Usability: With iCloud for Windows and browser extensions for Chrome and Edge, it works outside the Apple ecosystem.

• No Extra Cost: It’s included with iCloud, eliminating subscription fees.


For users deeply embedded in the Apple ecosystem, Apple Passwords now offers a streamlined, secure, and cost-effective solution.


Step-by-Step Migration Guide


1. Export Your Data from 1Password


1. Open 1Password on your desktop or browser.

2. Select the vault(s) you want to migrate.

3. Export your passwords in CSV format:

• In 1Password, go to the menu and choose File > Export (exact steps may vary by platform).

• Save the file to a secure location, as CSV files are not encrypted.


2. Enable iCloud Keychain on Apple Devices


1. On your iPhone or iPad:

• Go to Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud > Passwords and Keychain, then toggle it on.

2. On your Mac:

• Open System Settings > Apple ID > iCloud, and enable Passwords and Keychain.


3. Import the CSV File into Apple Passwords


1. On your Mac:

• Open System Settings and go to Passwords (or in Safari, go to Preferences > Passwords).

2. Unlock the password manager with your system password or Touch ID.

3. Look for the option to Import Passwords and select the CSV file you exported from 1Password.

4. Review the imported entries to ensure everything is correct.


4. Set Up Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)


1. Open Settings > Passwords on your iPhone or Mac.

2. For accounts requiring 2FA, locate the corresponding password entry and add the setup key or scan the QR code to generate 2FA codes directly within Apple Passwords.


5. Test Your New Setup


1. Visit frequently used websites or apps to confirm that your login credentials autofill correctly.

2. Ensure that two-factor authentication codes are also available if needed.


6. Clean Up and Secure Your Data


1. Once you’ve confirmed that all data has been successfully imported, delete the CSV file from your computer.

• On a Mac: Empty the trash to ensure the file is completely removed.

2. Delete your old data from 1Password:

• Go into your 1Password app or account and securely erase your vaults.


7. Cancel 1Password Subscription


If you decide to discontinue 1Password:

2. Cancel your subscription to avoid future charges.

3. Remove the app from your devices.


Additional Tips


• Password Monitoring: Apple Passwords includes a feature that alerts you if any of your credentials have been compromised.

• Secure Sharing: You can securely share passwords with trusted contacts via iMessage.

• Cross-Platform Access: If you occasionally use non-Apple devices, install the iCloud Passwords extension for Chrome or Edge.


By leveraging Apple Passwords’ improved functionality and easy migration process, you can enjoy a secure, integrated, and cost-free password management experience.


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