Android smartphone and tablet users are ready to get a new way to ensure they never lose track of all their important passwords.
as seen by 9to5Google (opens in new tab)Android users will now be able to add a shortcut to the Google Password Manager tool directly on their device’s home screen.
As the name suggests, this password manager service is able to keep track of all your login information in one safe and secure place – and it’s now available directly from your device’s home screen.
android password manager
The Google Password Manager tool has been available to Android users for a few years, as well as being part of the Chrome browser and a user’s Google web account.
The new feature allows users to access their saved data using existing biometrics or screen lock security protection on their device, rather than entering a password as is the case with the web version.
The password manager is able to save and store all your details including usernames and passwords, allowing you to keep track of any security issues or risks, as well as allowing users to modify any details when needed.
The shortcut is available after downloading the latest Google Play Services update (version 22.18 or newer), which should be available by default for Android users.
Once this is done, you can access the Password Manager by opening Settings > Privacy > Google Autofill Service > Passwords.
This page now includes an option to Add shortcut to home screenwhich will open a menu with the shortcut, which you can drag wherever you want on the home screen.
The news comes shortly after Google added the ability to store notes alongside your passwords, with a new “Notes” field below the username and password fields when adding a new password or when editing an existing password.