When logging into Google with a new device, iPhone users usually have to confirm their login with the old-fashioned, not-so-secure two-factor authentication method. Now, however, Google is allowing the iPhone itself to be used as a 2FA security key.

Android users who have had this feature since last year (if they have Android 7 or later) may have seen a Google prompt pop up on their phone when they need to log into their Google account. This is more convenient and safer than copying the code from a text message or voice message sent by Google.

Owners of Apple products will need to download the Google Smart Lock app to their devices. The app will work with iOS 10 or later (i.e., iPhone 5 or 4th generation iPad or later).

After updating to the latest version of the app (version 1.6), they can select the option to "Set the phone's built-in security key."

The app will then go through a short process to verify that the app can use the device's Bluetooth. The app then verifies that it can send push notifications and, of course, that it is properly logged into Google on the device.

Once this is done, if you have an iPhone within range of the device you are trying to log in to, you can open Smart Lock when prompted to confirm sign-in. You can also cancel if you make a mistake or someone is trying to access your account without your knowledge.

You can only log in with the Chrome browser (or a Chromium-based browser like Brave), and of course you must have Bluetooth enabled on both your phone and the second device.

It is unfortunate that there are so few browser options, but given the popularity of Chrome, this should not be a problem for many users.