Google announced a new feature that lets Android users move saved passwords from one manager to another without exposing the data. The tool works on devices running Android 14 and later, and it initially supports a handful of popular managers, with more slated for future updates.
The feature addresses a common pain point: switching password apps usually requires manual re‑entry of dozens of credentials. Google’s solution creates an encrypted bundle of login data that can be handed off directly between apps. Users invoke the transfer from the system settings, select the source and destination managers, and confirm the move with a biometric check. The process keeps the passwords encrypted on the device, never sending them to Google’s servers.
When a user starts a migration, Android generates a temporary key pair that both the source and target password manager can access. The source app encrypts each credential with the public key, then passes the ciphertext to the system. The target app receives the encrypted bundle, decrypts it with the private key stored in the secure enclave, and imports the entries. Because the keys never leave the device, Google cannot read any passwords. Developers of supported managers received a new API that handles the encryption steps automatically, reducing implementation effort.
Early adopters such as Bitwarden, LastPass, and 1 Password have already integrated the API. „We wanted a way for users to switch without losing trust,” said a Bitwarden spokesperson. „This feature lets us offer a seamless migration while keeping security front‑and‑center.” Google reports that initial testing showed zero data leakage incidents and a smooth user experience across the supported apps.
Google has pledged to expand compatibility, inviting other password‑manager developers to adopt the API. The company plans to publish detailed integration guides and host webinars for interested parties. „Our goal is a universal, secure migration path,” a Google Android security engineer explained. The roadmap includes support for additional managers within the next six months, aiming for broader coverage across the Android ecosystem.
The new migration tool could reshape how users manage their credentials. By lowering the barrier to switch apps, competition among password managers may intensify, driving innovation and better pricing. Security‑focused users gain confidence that their data stays on the device during transfers, reinforcing Android’s reputation for privacy. As more managers adopt the standard, the ecosystem will likely see fewer abandoned accounts and smoother onboarding for new users.
Is the migration data ever sent to Google’s cloud? No. All encryption and decryption happen locally on the device, and the temporary keys are discarded after the transfer.
Do I need a specific Android version to use this feature? Yes, the hand‑off works on Android 14 and newer versions that include the required security APIs.
Can I revert a migration if something goes wrong? You can cancel during the process, but once completed you must manually re‑export credentials from the new manager if needed.