Apple is expanding the compatibility of its iCloud Passwords expansion for Windows: Firefox is now also supported according to Chrome and Edge. The function enables the automatic filling of passwords from the iCloud keybund in the Mozilla browser.
Firefox receives iCloud integration
Apple has updated his iCloud Passwords expansion for Windows PCs quietly and quietly and now also supports the Firefox browser. The expansion enables users to automatically fill and manage their passwords stored in the iCloud keybund directly in Firefox. While the expansion has only worked on Macs so far, Windows users can now also access their Apple passwords in the Mozilla browser.
The “iCloud passwords” expansion (English iCloud Passwords) had been compatible with Google Chrome and Microsoft Edge on Windows PCs for a long time. With Firefox support, Apple is expanding its cross-platform strategy and offers users more flexibility in the browser choice. The function works seamlessly with the existing iCloud ecosystem and synchronizes registration data between all connected devices.
Installation and requirements
Windows users can expand the iCloud Passwords extension via the Official Firefox browser add-on page Add to your browser. However, a prerequisite is the installation of the iCloud for Windows app From the Microsoft Store. The app acts as a bridge between the Apple ecosystem and Windows systems and enables the synchronization of various iCloud services.
The iCloud for Windows app received the iCloud Keychain compatibility in August 2021 and has been continuously supplied with updates since then. It not only enables password synchronization, but also access to iCloud photos, mail and other Apple services under Windows.
Windows 11 as a possible restriction
Although Apple has not officially announced the update, user reports indicate an important restriction: Firefox support seems to work exclusively under Windows 11. Several Reddit users reported From successful use of the function on Windows 11, while Windows 10 users obviously do not receive any support.
The restriction would correspond to Apple’s strategy to support the latest technologies only on current operating systems. Windows 11 offers extended security features and more modern APIs that may be necessary for safe password synchronization. However, Apple has not officially confirmed the restriction.
Background and strategic importance
The expansion of browser support is part of Apple’s larger strategy to make its services available outside of your own ecosystem. With iOS 18, Apple introduced the independent Passwords app, which serves as a central point of contact for iCloud keychain elements. They were previously only accessible via one area in the settings app.
The cross-platform availability of iCloud Passwords is an important step in order to also bind Windows users to Apple’s ecosystem. At the same time, Apple competes directly with established password managers such as 1 Password, Bitwarden or Lastpass, which have been offering cross-platform solutions for years.
