Microsoft is set to make an important change to how Microsoft Edge's built-in password manager works via a new browser update. For context, the feature allows users to save and sync passkeys across their Windows PCs, making signing in easier and safer.
If you've interacted with Edge's built-in password manager, you know that it lets you secure and autofill your passwords using Windows Hello or a standalone password. However, Microsoft has announced its plan to discontinue the standalone password option via the next feature update for Microsoft Edge in favor of Windows Hello (via Neowin).
As such, users won't be able to create custom standalone passwords to secure their passwords once Microsoft Edge version 146 ships to the Stable channel. However, it's worth noting that feature will remain available for existing users through June 4, 2026, when the company is expected to pull the plug and transition users to Windows Hello.
In Microsoft Edge 146, users will no longer be able to create a new custom primary password in Edge Settings edge://settings/autofill/passwords/settings. Users who already have a custom primary password configured will see a warning that the feature won't be available from June 4, 2026. On June 4, 2026, any users who are still using a custom primary password will be automatically migrated to device authentication.
Microsoft
Edge's built-in password manager lets you secure passwords and autofill with two security options: Windows Hello or a standalone password. The latter is now on its way out, as Microsoft decided to discontinue the primary password in favor of the device sign-in or Windows Hello.
Elsewhere, Microsoft recently shipped Edge 145 to the Beta Channel, announcing its plan to pull support for macOS 12 Monterey.
Microsoft is ending support for primary password in Edge, transitioning users to device authentication
It's still unclear what kind of reception Microsoft will get from users for discontinuing the standalone password security option for Edge's built-in password manager, but Windows Hello seems like a more convenient option since it supports a biometric login system with your face, iris, or fingerprint (or a PIN).
Do you support Microsoft removing the custom primary password option in Edge’s password manager?
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