Next month, Google will release an update to the Android version of Chrome to significantly improve the compatibility of third-party password managers like 1Password, Dashlane, and others. The change aims to enhance the browsing experience for users who prefer alternatives over Chrome’s built-in password manager.
Current Issues with Third-Party Managers
While Chrome has its own password manager that stores sensitive data and autofills login forms, many users find third-party managers more convenient. Currently, the autofill feature inside Chrome uses a compatibility mode that can sometimes cause issues. This leads to occasional freezes when using external managers. In contrast, similar integrations, such as Safari’s on iOS, tend to function more smoothly.
Google acknowledges that the Android version of Chrome in its current form may encounter problems like choppy scrolling and duplicate entries when both Chrome’s password manager and third-party services are active. A Google representative noted, “With these upcoming changes, Chrome on Android will allow third-party services to autofill forms, making the interaction with the browser simpler and smoother.”
Release and Testing Details
The testing phase for this new feature will begin with Chrome version 131, notes NIXSolutions. To try it, users can select a third-party password manager as the preferred autofill service and enable the relevant option on Chrome’s Experimental Features page. The stable version of Chrome 131 will roll out on November 12, making the feature accessible to all users.
This update marks a significant improvement in usability for Android users relying on external password managers, and we’ll keep you updated on any further developments.