Google makes it easier to switch between password managers on Android
Google has introduced a new Android feature that lets users transfer passwords and passkeys directly between password manager apps without exporting CSV files. The feature currently supports 1Password, Bitwarden and Dashlane.
Google on Thursday unveiled a new password manager switching experience for Android that removes the need to download CSV files when moving between apps.
How it works
To use the feature, users open their new password manager app and choose to import or copy passwords from their previous one. Android automatically detects password manager apps installed on the device and coordinates the transfer between them. Users can review the data being moved and approve the process in just a few taps.
Notably, the system also supports transferring passkeys along with passwords, meaning users won't need to set passkeys up again for each account when switching to a new password manager app.
Security benefits
Google said the new method also reduces security risk by avoiding the exposure of data that can occur when passwords are exported into a CSV file, which is typically stored unencrypted and can be easily mishandled.
Availability
The new switching experience is already available with select partner apps as well as within Google's own password manager. 1Password, Bitwarden and Dashlane currently support the feature, with more apps expected to be added in the future. It will work on any device running Android 8 or later.
