Image Courtesy: The Verge
On Monday, Google updated its Titan security key range, streamlining it by eliminating a product and introducing NFC to all of its keys. The business will now sell two options: one with a USB-A connector, one with a USB-C connector, and both have NFC for connecting to “most mobile devices.” When they go on sale on August 10th, the USB-A key will cost $30, while the USB-C key will cost $35.
One of the most noticeable changes in Google’s new range is an upgraded USB-C key with NFC capability. Google’s earlier USB-C alternative, developed in partnership with Yubico, did not support the wireless standard. Now, choosing between USB-C and A is simple because neither offers any functionality that the other has. It just depends on the ports available on your machine. Google did not reply quickly to a request for comment on whether Yubico was involved in the creation of the new key.
According to Google’s support documentation, Titan security keys may be used to secure your Google account as well as third-party apps and services that implement FIDO standards, such as 1Password. They, as well as other security keys from businesses such as Yubico, can serve as second factors in securing your account even if an attacker has your login and password. They also prevent phishing since they will not validate a login to a bogus website that is attempting to steal your credentials. The Titan keys are also compatible with Google’s Advanced Protection Program, which is intended to give additional protection to users whose accounts may be targeted.
They help prevent phishing since they will not validate a login to a fraudulent website seeking to steal your credentials. The Titan keys are also compatible with Google’s Advanced Protection Program, which is designed to provide extra security to users whose accounts may be targeted.
Google’s NFC / Bluetooth / USB key, which was released to the public in 2018, will no longer be accessible as part of the revised range. On Google’s shop page, it is already shown as sold out. According to Google’s blog post, the Bluetooth model is being phased out in order to focus on “easier and more generally available NFC capabilities.”
While the new Titan Security Key range does not appear to include a Bluetooth option, it is great to note that the USB-C key now has NFC. If you use a MacBook or an iPhone, you’ll be able to utilise the upgraded USB-C plus NFC key without any dongles. According to Google’s blog post, the Bluetooth / NFC / USB key will continue to operate through Bluetooth and NFC “on most contemporary mobile devices.” The previous versions are still listed on Google’s Titan Security Key shop page, but according to Google’s article, the new selection will be available beginning August 10th.
