Recently, following Apple’s announcement that it would introduce support for physical security keys in its operating systems in 2023, the beta 1 versions of iOS 16.3, iPadOS 16.3 and macOS Ventura 13.2, have revealed signs that the company is beginning to test physical security key support.
The betas rolled out to developers last Wednesday with public beta testers receiving it the next day.
Security Keys can be added as a third-party option to your Apple ID account. They serve as an extra layer of protection. Once set up, the Security Key will be required to log into into a new device or access an Apple ID.
Traditionally, Apple devices have relied on verification codes, which are sent to the device in question for authentication when logging into another device. Physical security keys, can provide stronger protection against phishing attacks and unauthorized account access.
Apple stated that its iPhone, iPad, and Mac devices will support FIDO Certified security keys. These include compatible Lightning and NFC security keys by Yubico and others.
The addition of physical security key support for Apple ID marks a significant move towards stronger account protection. As digital threats continue to evolve and become more sophisticated, this adds an extra layer of support as needed.
To set up a security key on a device running the beta, Apple instructs users to go to their Apple ID settings and follow the instructions under the “Security Keys” section.
Stay tuned for additional details as they become available.
Via The Mac Observer and beta.apple.com