Apple unveils 'Passwords' manager app at WWDC 2024

Original Article ↗ Hacker News Discussion ↗

Apple’s new Passwords app, unveiled at WWDC 2024 as a front end to iCloud Keychain, is seen as a strong built‑in alternative to third‑party managers like 1Password, Bitwarden, and LastPass, especially for users already in the Apple ecosystem. Commenters highlight its tight OS integration, passkey and OTP support, family sharing, and upcoming Windows client, but note the lack of Android and Linux support and worry about ecosystem lock‑in and account loss risks. Many long‑time 1Password users, frustrated by its move to Electron, subscription‑only plans, and enterprise focus, say they are considering switching, while others will stick to more open, multi‑platform tools such as Bitwarden or KeePass.

Overall reaction to Apple Passwords

  • Seen largely as a new UI over iCloud Keychain, not a brand‑new backend.
  • Many welcome a first‑class app instead of “hidden” settings panes and the old, technical Keychain Access.
  • Some view this as overdue: password management “should be an OS feature,” especially for non‑technical users and families.

Competition with existing password managers

  • Many expect Apple’s move to hurt consumer‑oriented managers (especially LastPass, 1Password, Bitwarden) on Apple platforms.
  • 1Password in particular is criticized: Electron rewrite, perceived UX regressions, bugs, subscription pivot, removal of local vaults; some long‑time users are planning to jump ship.
  • Bitwarden, KeePassXC, pass, Enpass, and others are frequently cited as strong cross‑platform or self‑hostable alternatives that Apple won’t replace.
  • Several note that SSH key management, rich item types, and team/corporate workflows keep 1Password/Bitwarden relevant for power users and enterprises.

Platform lock‑in & cross‑platform gaps

  • Biggest objection: no Linux or Android support; Windows support relies on iCloud for Windows and a browser extension, with mixed expectations about quality.
  • Many explicitly avoid Apple’s (and Google’s) managers to keep switching costs low and avoid “all eggs in one basket.”
  • Others argue that most mainstream users are already fully in the Apple ecosystem, making this “good enough” and very attractive.

Security, privacy, and trust

  • iCloud Keychain / Passwords is said to be end‑to‑end encrypted, but some distrust putting critical secrets under a single Apple ID.
  • Concerns include: SIM‑swap attacks on Apple IDs, account bans or corruption, and difficulty exporting from iOS/iCloud without a Mac.
  • Some prefer open‑source clients and self‑hosted vaults for auditability and independence.
  • Others counter that Apple’s long‑running Keychain, passkey support, and device‑tied auth are exactly why they trust Apple more than smaller vendors.

Features & UX details

  • Desired or praised features: TOTP/OTP support (already in iOS), password sharing/family groups, passkey handling, Windows client, tighter browser integration, better discoverability.
  • Missing or weaker areas vs third parties: secure notes and files, SSH keys, custom item types, multi-domain logins, strong Firefox/Linux integration.
  • Some fear Apple will not prioritize non‑Apple platforms, as with past Windows ports and Safari.