TikTok Adds Passkey Login for iOS Devices

TikTok is adding a new feature to make it more secure.

The popular short-form video-sharing platform recently announced it is adding its passkey login method for iOS devices that allows users to have a better way to sign into their TikTok accounts.

The addition of this feature could be due to the platform's decision to become an app where cash could be exchanged, like Amazon and Shein, through its recently added Trendy Beat feature.

TikTok Passkey Login Method Details

TikTok mentioned in its announcement that its new passkey login method will give users a faster, easier, and more secure way to sign into their TikTok accounts across their devices, either by using Face or Touch ID.

For those unaware, passkeys are a login method that uses unique digital keys that can't be reused for passwordless logins instead of traditional passwords and PINs, per Tom's Guide. They cannot be reused on other sites much like a password can - they're stored in an encrypted format on a user's device instead of a company's servers, preventing cybercriminals from stealing them during a data breach.

TikTok said that its passkey login method works by using public-private key cryptography techniques, requiring users to verify their identity first via Apple Face or Touch ID before the feature initiates the key pairing. Apps using passkeys cannot access or process any of the biometric data used in the authentication process on iOS devices, ensuring users' safety and privacy.

TikTok revealed that its passkey login methods were made possible by its partnership with the FIDO Alliance, which aims to develop and promote authentication standards that "help reduce the world's over-reliance on passwords."

As a partner, Tiktok wishes to contribute to the Alliance's mission by influencing the development of FIDO specifications, establishing best practices for the deployment of FIDO Authentication, and driving global awareness of the Alliance and its mission.

TikTok will first roll out its new login method in certain regions, specifically in Asia, Africa, Australia, and South America. While the US isn't part of the initial group of regions getting the feature, users in the country only need to wait for TikTok to expand the feature's coverage for some time.

How To Switch On TikTok's PassKkey Login Method

Users that belong in the previously mentioned regions can follow these few simple steps to switch on passkeys for their TikTok account using their iOS device. However, a user must have an iOS device running iOS 16, iPadOS 16, macOS Ventura, tvOS 16, or later to use passkey login.

In the TikTok app, tap Profile at the bottom
Tap the menu button at the top and select Settings and privacy
Tap account and iCloud passkey to open a new screen
tap on Set up on the next screen and follow the instructions provided to complete the setup

Users who enabled passkey login to their account will be automatically prompted to log in with their saved passkey to access their account. Those who went through the process and wish to do so again on another device need to log in to their TikTok account on another Apple device through the Other Sign In Options on the login screen.

They will then be prompted to scan the QR code with a device running iOS 16 or later, or another compatible device. They could also use AirDrop to share the passkey with another device.