Google adds password and passkey transfers between Android managers

Android introduces a new password manager migration flow

Google has introduced an Android password manager switching experience that lets users move passwords and passkeys from one manager app to another without downloading and importing CSV files. The feature is available on devices running Android 8 or later.

The initial group of supported services includes Google Password Manager, 1Password, Bitwarden and Dashlane. Google said the experience is already available through select partners and its own password manager, with further apps planned for future support.

How the transfer works

Users begin in the password manager they want to adopt, selecting an option to import or copy credentials from the existing manager. Android then identifies compatible password manager apps installed on the device and coordinates the transfer between them.

Before the move is completed, the user can review the information being transferred and approve the operation in a few taps. Google describes the process as a direct alternative to export-and-import workflows built around CSV files.

Passkeys are included in the move

The change covers passkeys as well as passwords. That means a user changing password manager does not need to set up supported passkeys again merely because the credentials are being moved to a different app.

Google also said the new approach avoids the risk of exposing data through a CSV file. CSV exports are commonly used for migration, but they create a separate file containing credential data that has to be handled during the switch.

What the change means for organisations

Password-manager changes can affect both stored passwords and newer passkey-based sign-in methods. Android’s system-coordinated transfer gives supported services a way to handle both categories within the migration flow while allowing the user to inspect and approve the data transfer.

For businesses, the practical implication is to confirm that the current and target password managers support Android’s switching experience, then have users review the selected data before approving a migration that includes passwords and passkeys.