How to Use Apple’s Passwords App as Your 2FA Authenticator

If you’ve upgraded to iOS 18 or macOS Sequoia, you’ll notice the new Passwords app—a simple, secure way to manage logins. But Passwords also doubles as a two-factor authentication (2FA) app. You can now generate and autofill 2FA codes for your accounts right from your Apple devices. Here’s how to get started.

What Is 2FA and Why Use It?

Two-factor authentication adds an extra security step to your accounts, using a time-sensitive code in addition to your password. This code (sometimes referred to as TOTP) changes every 30 seconds, making it nearly impossible for hackers to access your account, even if your password is compromised.

Setting Up 2FA Codes in Apple Passwords

Go to your account’s security settings on the website and choose “set up 2FA (using app)” or “verification app” (sometimes labeled “Authenticator app”).
The website will show a QR code or a manual setup key—don’t close this page.
On iPhone, iPad, or Mac: Open the Passwords app (or go to Settings > Passwords).
Find or create the login for that account.
Tap “Set Up Verification Code” (on Mac, “Add Verification Code”).
Use your device camera to scan the QR code, or enter the text version of the code.
You’ll see a 6-digit code appear in Passwords, ready to use.

Logging In With 2FA Codes

When you next log into that site using Safari (or most apps), Apple Passwords will either suggest the one-time code above your iOS keyboard or autofill it for you. If you’re using a different browser or device, simply open Passwords, select your login, and then copy the code to paste it during the login process. Additionally, an Apple Password extension is available for Chrome-based browsers.

Pro Tips

2FA codes in Passwords sync seamlessly across your iPhone, iPad, and Mac if you’re signed into your Apple ID.
Backup is automatic if you use iCloud Keychain—no risk of losing access when switching devices.
If you help friends or family set up 2FA, Passwords is easy enough for anyone to use and built into their Apple device by default.Two-factor authentication (2FA) codes in the Passwords feature sync effortlessly across your iPhone, iPad, and Mac as long as you’re signed into your Apple ID.
Backup is automatic if you use iCloud Keychain, ensuring that you don’t risk losing access when switching devices.
If you assist friends or family in setting up 2FA, the Passwords feature is user-friendly and is integrated into their Apple devices by default.

Why Use Apple Passwords for 2FA?

All your logins and 2FA codes are safely stored and synced with end-to-end encryption via iCloud.
No extra authenticator app needed—reducing digital clutter.
Autofill makes secure logins effortless.

Final Thoughts

Take a few minutes today to migrate your most important accounts—your future self will thank you.