Google has confirmed this morning that it is testing a new way for people to sign into their Google accounts, minus the use of passwords. Those invited to try the new method log in and authenticate by responding to notifications sent directly to their smartphone. The idea is somewhat similar to Yahoo’s Account Key.
Passwords are often considered the weakest part of a secured account. Two-factor authentications, such as using USB sticks or using codes sent via text, can greatly help in increasing security. The downside here is that many find this to be quite the hassle, since it introduces another step to any login process.