# Apple’s Passwords App: A Positive Beginning, Yet Lacking Crucial Features
Apple has consistently been recognized for its smooth integration between hardware and software, forming a unified ecosystem that countless users depend on every day. With the launch of iOS 18, iPadOS 18, and macOS Sequoia, Apple unveiled a standalone **Passwords app**—a long-anticipated feature for numerous users who have leaned on third-party password managers such as **1Password**. Nevertheless, although Apple’s new app holds potential, it is missing several vital features that hinder its role as a complete substitute for more advanced options like 1Password.
## The Development of Apple’s Password Management
For many years, Apple provided a password management system embedded within the Settings app on iPhones and Macs. While adequate, it wasn’t as user-friendly or robust as specialized password managers. The debut of the standalone **Apple Passwords app** in iOS 18 and macOS Sequoia represents a notable advancement, simplifying the process for users to organize their passwords, passkeys, and security codes.
The app syncs seamlessly across Apple devices through iCloud, delivering a cohesive experience for users deeply integrated into the Apple ecosystem. However, despite these advancements, Apple’s Passwords app still falls short in a number of important areas.
## Lacking Features: Credit Cards and Beyond
One of the most glaring gaps in Apple’s Passwords app is the absence of support for **credit cards**. For a significant number of users, including myself, this capability is crucial for online shopping and managing finances. In contrast, **1Password** enables users to not only store passwords but also credit card details, bank accounts, IDs, and secure notes. These added features position 1Password as a more holistic solution for safeguarding sensitive data.
Apple Passwords also does not offer support for **bank accounts, identities, and notes**, which are functionalities that many users expect from a contemporary password manager. The lack of these features complicates the process for users looking to fully transition from third-party apps like 1Password to Apple’s offering.
### The Importance of Credit Cards
For those who frequently shop online, having the capability to auto-fill credit card information is transformative. **1Password** has historically provided this feature, enabling users to swiftly and securely enter their payment information during checkout. This not only saves time but also bolsters security by mitigating the need to store credit card details directly with online retailers.
In contrast, **Apple Passwords** currently does not support the storage or auto-filling of credit card information. While Apple Pay serves as an alternative for certain online transactions, it is not universally accepted by all merchants, rendering the lack of credit card accommodation in Apple Passwords a considerable limitation.
## Transitioning from 1Password to Apple Passwords
Shifting from **1Password** to **Apple Passwords** is relatively simple when it comes to moving passwords and two-factor authentication codes. However, the transition becomes more challenging when it comes to different kinds of data. For instance, **1Password** permits users to store secure notes, software licenses, and even documents like passports and driver’s licenses. None of this information can be imported into Apple Passwords, making a full transition difficult for users.
Furthermore, **Apple Passwords** does not currently offer a straightforward method to import credit card details from 1Password or other third-party applications. This restriction complicates the transition for users who depend on 1Password for managing their financial information.
## Alternatives: Third-Party Apps and Solutions
Notably, a third-party application called **Access** has emerged as a possible option for users seeking additional features in their password management. Available on the App Store, **Access** is crafted to supplement Apple’s Passwords app by offering support for credit cards, bank accounts, IDs, and secure notes. The app utilizes **iCloud** for synchronization and promises end-to-end encryption, thereby keeping user data secure.
While **Access** presents an appealing array of features, it’s crucial to point out that it is not an official Apple application. Users should remain vigilant when utilizing third-party apps for managing sensitive information, even those offered in the App Store.
## Looking Forward: Will Apple Enhance Features?
The launch of the **Apple Passwords app** signifies progress, but it’s evident that further enhancements are necessary for it to rival established password managers like **1Password**. The ability to store and auto-fill credit card details, manage secure notes, and process other forms of sensitive data are critical features that Apple will need to incorporate if it hopes for users to fully embrace its app.
Considering Apple’s history of improving its software, it is probable that we will see additional features added to **Apple Passwords** in upcoming updates. Until then, users who require more sophisticated functionality will likely continue to depend on third-party applications like **1Password** or **Proton Pass**.
