Based on the New Gmail Login Page, Could There a New Password System in the Works at Google?
Did you notice the new Gmail login this week? Chances are, many users missed the update because they stay signed in. A small update with potential ramifications is what the new login page provides.
Before the update, users would enter in their email and password all on one page and login. Now, Google has chosen to go the route of a 2-step process that has irked many users. The login consists of the following:
- Entering your email (step 1)
- Clicking next
- Entering in your password (step 2)
The change has been noticeable among users. Many users state that they’re no longer able to use their password managers effectively, and other users state that the process simply slows down logging into the site.
Why the drastic, slower change?
Google publicly commented on the matter and has stated that the new Gmail login is meant for future authentication systems. This is a vague response that has been analyzed by blogs and security experts. What is the new authentication system Google is talking about, and will this mean that everyone has to use a new system that “complements” passwords?
There are a few speculations among users as to what Google is alluding to in their statement. The consensus is that Google may be referencing:
- 2-step authentication
- Hardware dongles
- Smart Lock
The 2-step authentication is available in some ways and allows users to use their smartphone to get a one-time code that is needed to login alongside a standard password.
Android’s Smart Lock system is a good candidate because it enhances security greatly. The way the system works is that it uses a variety of measures or signals to unlock a device, or in this case, email. These measures include:
- Bluetooth connectivity with a trusted device.
- Trusted user locations.
- On-body device detection.
- Facial recognition.
All of this is mere speculation at this point because Google was rather vague with their initial response to the drastic change. Security experts agree that there are better ways to login to sites or platforms, and that a standard username and password authentication is not making use of the latest security measures.
A few other hints have been provided by Google. In a statement, the company said that the new login methods of the future will allow for:
- Reduced confusion when logging into multiple Google accounts.
- Easier access for corporate and student users with different identity providers.
Users are still confused or even aggravated by the additional step that is now needed to log into their email account. Google has taken the steps to introduce a new password or authentication system, but has yet to implement the entire system, leading to confusion among users.
A smart step that is in the right direction, Google is definitely working on some method to enhance user security when using Gmail. Will it be facial recognition, or Bluetooth technology? No one knows for certain, but assuming that there are a lot of users logging in via PC, Google will have to ensure that they accommodate all users – with and without smart devices.