Bitwarden Developer Survey 2024: Devs Love Passkeys
Tags: cybersecurity, ux, news, authentication
Published: 2023-11-03 11:00:00

In the [Bitwarden Developer Survey 2024](https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1AoEg_q3z7gXaYm1KurpLE2WCjwc_hYYVLlFAIyStlsc/edit#slide=id.g284bbf5bf14_0_100), 600 developers cast their votes on a range of topics, but of particular interest is the deep dive into passkeys. Let's unravel the insights into the evolving landscape of passkey integration and what it means for developers.

## A Glimpse into the Passkey Landscape

A favorable outlook on passkeys shines through, with 88% of developers praising passkey and passwordless features. Their usage is already widespread: 68% use them for work apps and 60% for personal apps. Yet, despite the rise of FIDO2 and passkeys, only a third believe these technologies will wholly replace passwords.

## Unraveling Passkey Usage Trends 

In a short span, passkeys have seen a rapid adoption rate. Big tech initiatives and the FIDO alliance's efforts have ensured that a meager 3% of developers remain in the dark about passkeys. With the continued push towards enhancing user experiences with passkeys, particularly in mobile app access, the upward trajectory is anticipated to sharpen.

## Passkey Integration Dynamics

- 83% of developers are proactively weaving passkey features into their digital fabric.
- 41% have unveiled plans for future integration.
- A cautious 37% are still contemplating the shift, although market demands may soon catalyze their transition.

## Reassessing the Role of Passwords 

While a certain segment of developers envisions passkeys reigning supreme, for now, a hybrid model of authentication prevails. Many new platforms may leapfrog to a 100% passwordless environment from their inception.

## Challenges in the Passkey Realm

1. **System Compatibility (25%):** How to integrate with existing systems is a core challenge
2. **Updating Legacy Systems (23%):** Transitioning from passwords from legacy system to passkeys is another challenge.
3. **Security Concerns (20%):** Ensuring secure implementation to avoid vulnerabilities remains paramount.
4. **User Education (17%):** The shift from the familiar world of passwords to passkeys necessitates user education.
5. **Cost Implications (15%):** Established businesses might grapple with cost concerns of passkey introduction.

## Opting for Passkey API Providers

A majority of developers (77%) see the merit in leveraging an external API provider for passkey authentication. In contrast, only a fraction (4%) would opt to go entirely in-house, signaling a strong role for platforms like Corbado in this domain.

## Additional Nuggets of Wisdom

**The 2FA Boost:** With 41% developers earmarking 2FA enhancements, the inherent 2FA nature of passkeys offers an attractive solution.
**Passwordless Promise:** About 36% underscore the immense potential in enhancing user experiences without compromising on security.

## Final Remarks 

The tech industry's front-liners, developers, exhibit a penchant for innovations that strike a balance between security and user-friendliness. The trajectory of passkeys showcases this trend in action. As they continue to evolve, they're set to sculpt the future of digital authentication.
For a deeper dive into the full spectrum of insights from the Bitwarden Developer Survey 2024, especially the nitty-gritty of passkey adoption, you're invited to explore the passkey analysis here.