Chrome Password Manager Gets Easier on Android

This new feature will be available in Google Update 131 from November 12

Image: Google

Google's latest update to Chrome for Android is set to revolutionize how password managers work on the mobile platform. The new feature, which will be available starting from November 12th with the release of Chrome 131, will allow third-party password managers to seamlessly autofill forms on websites directly within Chrome. This is a significant improvement over the current experience, which can often be clunky and frustrating for Chrome users who rely on these tools to manage their online credentials.

For years, Chrome users have been able to use Google's built-in password manager or integrate with third-party options. However, the integration has always been somewhat limited, with third-party managers often requiring additional steps or workarounds to function properly. The new update aims to address these issues and provide a more seamless experience for Chrome users.

One of the most notable improvements is the ability for third-party password managers to natively autofill forms. This means that when you visit a website that requires you to enter a password or other personal information, your preferred password manager will automatically suggest the correct credentials, just like it does in other Android apps. This eliminates the need for manual input and reduces the risk of errors.

In addition to password autofill, the update will also allow third-party password managers to autofill other information, such as addresses and payment card details. This is particularly useful for online shopping and other activities that require you to enter personal information.

Google has acknowledged that the current integration between Chrome and third-party password managers can be problematic. The company has described the experience as "janky" and said that it can lead to duplicate suggestions from both Google's own password manager and the third-party option. The new update is designed to address these issues and provide a more consistent and reliable experience.

Image: Android DevelopersBlog

To enable third-party autofill services on Chrome, open Chrome on your Android device and navigate to chrome://flags#enable-autofill-virtual-view-structure. Set the flag to "Enabled" and restart Chrome. Then, open Chrome's Settings and tap "Autofill Services." Choose "Autofill using another service," confirm your selection, and restart Chrome.

Overall, the upcoming update to Chrome 131 is a significant step forward for password management on mobile devices. It will make it easier for Chrome users to manage their online credentials and reduce the risk of security breaches. If you're a Chrome user who relies on a third-party password manager, you'll definitely want to check out this new feature when it becomes available.