Apple's latest updates, including macOS Sequoia, iOS 18, iPadOS 18, and visionOS 2, have introduced a dedicated Passwords app for managing and storing your passwords, passkeys, and other private data. This app also enables autofill functionality on websites, enhancing your browsing experience.

Additionally, synchronized passwords are accessible on Windows devices through the iCloud for Windows application. By replacing iCloud Keychain, the new Passwords app simplifies password management on macOS. Previously, passwords were only accessible via the settings app, but now, the standalone Passwords app consolidates passwords, passkeys, codes, and Wi-Fi passwords into a single, convenient location.

Among the various enhancements the Passwords app offers, one noteworthy feature is the ability to place it in the Menu Bar on macOS Sequoia.

Note: Please note that macOS Sequoia is currently in Developer Beta. The public beta is slated for release next month, with the official public update arriving later this fall. If desired, you can install the Developer Beta on your Mac now.

What does the Passwords app offer from the Menu Bar?

By adding the Passwords app to the Menu Bar, it can detect the current app or website you're using and provide relevant password suggestions in a convenient pop-up. This functionality is particularly beneficial if you use third-party browsers instead of Safari and want to access passwords seamlessly without relying on extensions.

Although it doesn't auto-fill passwords like it does in Safari, you can conveniently copy and paste usernames and passwords into other browsers. However, this is the primary capability available from the Menu Bar. For full functionality, you will need to use the Passwords app directly.

How to add the Passwords app to the Menu Bar

Step 1: Open the Passwords app on your Mac and enter your user password to access it.

Step 2: Click on Passwords from the menu bar and select Settings.

Step 3: In the Settings window, under the General section, enable the option for Show Passwords in Menu Bar.

Step 4: The Passwords icon will now appear in the Menu Bar. Click on it to access the app from the Menu Bar. You will be prompted to enter your user password to unlock it.

Step 5: After unlocking, the app will display suggested passwords for any websites you're browsing—even in third-party browsers like Arc, Chrome, etc.—or for apps currently open on your screen.

Step 6: Click on the suggested password to view the username and password details, which you can then copy as needed.

While the Passwords app may not yet rival full-fledged password managers for advanced users, it provides a convenient option for those seeking a simple, integrated solution. With the Menu Bar addition and continued development, it has the potential to become even more useful in the future.