Android Phones can now Be Used as Security Keys

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Google has released a new feature that allows Android smartphones to double as a security key in order to further enhance user account protection.

Two-step verification has been around for a long time, but given hackers have already managed to break it on several occasions, Google is looking into more advanced security solutions to guard user accounts.

The toughest at this point are considered the traditional security keys, and with today’s announcement, Google allows Android phones to play the role of such a device.

“Your phone can be your security key—it’s built into devices running Android 7.0+. This makes it easier and more convenient for you to unlock this powerful protection, without having to carry around additional security keys,” Google says.

Chrome OS, macOS, and Windows 10 supported
With this option, users can enable their Android phones to be used as security keys for both personal Google accounts and Google Cloud Accounts at work. All they need is an Android phone running version 7 or newer, a Bluetooth-enable device powered by Chrome OS, macOS, or Windows 10, and Google Chrome browser.

After setting up the Android device as a security key, whenever a login attempt is required, the phone receives a notification to grant the permission or refuse it.

In addition, Google recommends customers to also get a traditional security key as a backup, just in case one is needed to restore access to an account.

“We recommend registering a backup security key to your account and keeping it in a safe place, so you can get into your account if you lose your phone. You can get a security key from a number of vendors, including our own Titan Security Key,” Google says.

The new feature is available today for all Google users who own an Android device and configured two-step verification for their accounts.