In households where multiple members use the same streaming services, gaming platforms, or shared family accounts, having a secure method to share access eliminates the need to remember or manually share multiple credentials. It streamlines the login process, allowing family members to easily access shared services without the hassle of repeatedly asking for passwords or risking security by writing them down or sending them through insecure channels.
By using encrypted methods to share passwords, the owner of the account can control who has access and can revoke or change permissions as needed. This not only ensures that sensitive information remains in the hands of trusted individuals but also provides a way to manage access over time. Whether it’s a temporary sharing with a friend or ongoing access for family members, secure password sharing provides a flexible and safe way to manage shared digital resources, enhancing both convenience and peace of mind.
Family Passwords allow family members to securely share and manage passwords for various online accounts, such as streaming services, shopping sites, or any other accounts that family members commonly use together. Instead of verbally sharing passwords or sending them through insecure means, Family Passwords provide a centralized and encrypted platform for sharing these sensitive credentials.
This new feature introduced with iOS 17 works by allowing the family organizer to choose which passwords to share with family members. These passwords are stored securely in iCloud Keychain and can be accessed only by authorized family members. The family organizer can set specific permissions, controlling who can view, edit, or share the passwords.
Security is a paramount concern for Family Passwords. All shared passwords are encrypted, and the sharing process is conducted through secure channels. Family members can request access to a shared password, and the family organizer has the authority to approve or deny the request. This ensures that only trusted family members have access to shared passwords.
These are also integrated with other Apple services, such as Safari’s built-in password manager. This means that shared passwords can be auto-filled on websites and apps, just like individual passwords. The integration provides a seamless user experience, making it easier for family members to use shared accounts without having to manually enter passwords.
How to Use Family Passwords on iPhone With iOS 17
Apple has made it extremely easy to use family passwords on iPhone, but you’ll first need to make sure that all of the members in your family have updated to iOS 17. With that in mind, here’s how you can set up and use Family Passwords on iPhone without so much of a hiccup.
Update to iOS 17: Ensure that your iPhone is running iOS 17 or later. Go to “Settings” > “General” > “Software Update” to check for updates and install if necessary.
Once all users have been updated, open the Settings app on your iPhone.
Swipe down and tap Passwords.
Authenticate yourself using FaceID, TouchID, or your PIN code.
Tap the Get Started button found within the Share Passwords with Family prompt.
When prompted, tap Continue.
Create a New Shared Group.
Enter a Group Name.
Under the Group Members section, tap the + Add People button.
Add the contacts that you want to share passwords with.
Once finished, tap the Create button in the top right corner.
From here, you’ll be able to go through your list of logins and passwords that are saved to iCloud Keychain, adding the ones that you want to share with ease. You can also add passwords and logins to members of the Family Passwords group by following these steps:
Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
Scroll down and tap Passwords.
Authenticate yourself using FaceID, TouchID, or your PIN code.
Scroll through your list of passwords, locating and selecting the one that you want to add to the Family Passwords group.
Tap the drop down menu next to Groups.
Select Family Passwords from the list of options.
When prompted, tap the Move to Group button.
There are a few other features that Apple has integrated into Family Passwords, helping to turn iCloud Keychain into a fully-fledged competitor to the likes of 1Password and other password management applications.
Access Shared Passwords: Go to “Settings” > “Passwords” to view and manage shared family passwords.
Edit or Remove Shared Passwords: Tap on a shared password to edit or remove it. Changes will be reflected across all family members’ devices.
Request Access: Family members can request access to a shared password. The family organizer will receive a notification and can approve or deny the request.
Set Permissions: The family organizer can set permissions for each family member, controlling who can view, edit, or share passwords.
Conclusion
Family Passwords on iOS 17 represent a thoughtful addition to Apple’s suite of family-oriented features. By providing a secure and convenient way to share passwords, it enhances both security and usability for families that use multiple shared online services. It reflects a growing trend towards more personalized and family-centric digital experiences, recognizing that many online accounts are used by multiple family members.
With Family Passwords, Apple is acknowledging this reality and providing tools to make shared digital life simpler and safer. Whether it’s a Netflix account, a shared email, or any other common family account, Family Passwords streamline the process while keeping the information secure.
Andrew Myrick is a freelance writer based on the East Coast of the US. He enjoys everything to do with technology, including tablets, smartphones, and everything in between. Perhaps his favorite past-time is having a never-ending supply of different keyboards and gaming handhelds that end up collecting more dust than the consoles that are being emulated.
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