Apple’s Passwords app in macOS 26 Beta introduces a version history feature that addresses a common problem: recovering older passwords after accidental changes or overwrites. This update streamlines password management, allowing users to view and restore previous passwords for each account directly within the Passwords app. The new functionality reduces lockouts and repetitive password resets, especially for users who frequently update credentials or share logins across multiple devices.

Accessing Password Version History in macOS 26 Beta

Step 1: Open the Passwords app from your Applications folder, Dock, or by searching with Command + Space and typing "Passwords." The Passwords app now appears as a standalone application, making it easier to locate and launch compared to previous versions buried in System Settings.

Step 2: Authenticate using Touch ID or your Mac user account password. This security measure ensures only authorized users can view or manage stored credentials.

Step 3: In the Passwords app, select the account or website login for which you want to review password history. Each entry displays details such as username, website, and password status.

Source: Apple

Step 4: If the selected account has had its password changed at least once, a View History button will appear at the bottom of the entry. Click this button to display a chronological list of all previously saved passwords for that account, along with timestamps indicating when each change occurred.

Source: MacRumors

Step 5: Click on any Password Changed or Password Saved entry to reveal the actual password that was in use at that time. This makes it possible to retrieve and use an older password if a recent update caused login issues or if you need to access a previous version for account recovery.

Step 6: If needed, you can copy the older password to your clipboard for use in login forms or other applications. The Passwords app securely stores all versions, and you have the option to clear the password history if you wish, though it's generally recommended to retain it for troubleshooting and recovery purposes.

Viewing Saved Passwords and Passkeys in System Settings (macOS Sonoma and Earlier)

For Macs running macOS Sonoma or earlier, password management is handled through System Settings or Safari rather than the standalone Passwords app. Version history is not available in these versions, but you can still view, edit, or delete current passwords.

Step 1: Open System Settings from the Apple menu.

Step 2: Click on Passwords in the sidebar. Authenticate with Touch ID or your user password.

Step 3: Select the desired account. Click the Show Details icon to view and manage the password or passkey. You can update or delete the password as needed, but previous versions will not be listed.

Accessing Saved Passwords in Safari

Safari provides another method for viewing saved passwords, particularly useful for website logins. This approach does not offer version history but allows you to copy or update existing credentials.

Step 1: Open Safari, then navigate to Safari > Settings > Passwords.

Step 2: Authenticate with Touch ID or your account password.

Step 3: Browse the list of saved websites, select the one you need, and click the Show Details icon to view or copy the password. Editing and deleting options are also available.

Recovering Recently Changed or Deleted Passwords

macOS offers limited recovery options for recently changed or deleted passwords. In iOS 17 and some versions of macOS, recently deleted passwords may be available for up to 72 hours. Check the Recently Deleted section in the Passwords app or System Settings to restore credentials if needed.

Additional Tips and Troubleshooting

  • Ensure iCloud Keychain is enabled to keep passwords and passkeys synced across all Apple devices.
  • If you move a password to a shared group, be aware it may only appear on devices with compatible software versions.
  • For quick access, enable the Passwords app icon in the menu bar via the Passwords app settings. This provides instant access to saved credentials without opening the full app window.
  • Use Siri by saying "Show my passwords" for voice-activated access to saved credentials.

Apple’s addition of password version history in macOS 26 Beta streamlines account recovery and reduces the frustration of lost or overwritten passwords, making credential management more reliable for all users.

With these new tools in macOS 26 Beta, you can quickly recover previous passwords and maintain better control over your account security. Regularly reviewing your saved credentials and keeping iCloud Keychain enabled will further simplify password management across your devices.