How to Disable Chrome Password Manager (and Why You Might Want to)

To celebrate 10 years of Chrome, Google unveiled a revamped interface that is more functional and loaded with new features. Some visual changes include rounded tabs, the ability to add customized wallpaper without extensions, and a new profile icon. One feature that caught users’ attention is the updated password manager. Chrome has had a password manager and autofill option for a long time, but they were not useful. The revamped password manager is a start, but I am still not going to use it. Don’t get me wrong; I am a Google fan. I have spent the last month moving everything to Drive, Keep Notes, and Gmail. But I am not a fan of the Chrome Password Manager.

By the end of the post, if you feel the same way, then you can check out how to disable it.

1. What About Other Browsers

Chrome, with around 60% market share on desktop/laptop and mobile platforms, is not the only browser. The remaining 40% of users rely on Firefox, Edge, Safari, Opera, UC Browser, and IE (yes, people still use it!).

If you are a Chrome user, you may use it as your default password manager. However, people who use Chrome with other browsers might feel limited by this browser-specific password manager. Other password managers like LastPass, Dashlane, and 1Password support all browsers and operating systems, giving you more freedom and control over your login credentials. Using Chrome Password Manager seems restrictive and limiting. What if you wanted to use another browser in the future?

Looking at the Chrome Password Manager, the first question that popped into my mind was – does it work on smartphones? I own both an Android and an iPhone. When I launched Chrome on my iPhone, the password manager was missing. Even Chrome on Android does not have the Password Manager. That’s surprising since Google owns Android.

This absence greatly limits the functionality of the Chrome Password Manager. Millions of people use their smartphones to surf the web, watch videos, binge-watch Netflix, and shop online. Google’s decision to exclude mobile platforms has left me perplexed. While I’m sure Google had their reasons, I hope the feature launches for mobile platforms soon.

3. What About Apps

Google integrates its services into its apps and those developed by others. However, this integration does not extend to Chrome’s password manager. The manager is only compatible with the browser.

A third-party app enables autofill of passwords and other details with a single tap, eliminating the need to change screens or open the password manager app. Although these apps may come at a premium, their convenience outweighs the cost.

4. Useful Features You May Need

Chrome Password Manager, a free product from Google, is comparable to other password managers but does not have the same cost. Third-party options like LastPass and Dashlane charge a fee, but their features span multiple platforms and justify the expense. In contrast, LastPass costs $2 per month and includes support for popular browsers, operating systems, and mobile apps.

The fingerprint sensor on your phone can be used to quickly log in to your favorite sites or apps. Chrome Password Manager does not have the ability to create and store secured notes like some other password managers.

5. All Eggs in One Basket

Google offers its apps and services for free in exchange for your data. It collects and retains this data to deliver a personalized experience. Whether you use Gmail or Chrome, Google wants to know more about you by learning your usage patterns. This is a scary part of digital life.

I trust Google and believe my data is safe on their servers. But the idea of saving all my passwords on their servers scares me. It’s like keeping all your eggs in one basket that might get stolen. It is better to store some things on a different server and with a different company, one that is not owned by Google.

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If you want to use Chrome Password Manager, proceed. However, if you need more features, options, and control over your passwords, follow the steps below to disable it.

Launch Chrome on your desktop, and you should be logged in to Google. Click on your profile pic on the upper-right corner and click on Passwords. There are two options available here:

Enabling the first option will generate a secure password every time you register a new account. The second option lets you sign in to websites automatically, without entering your user ID and password. Disable both options to stop Chrome from generating and saving passwords automatically.

It’s Not There Yet

I prefer using Google apps and services, but the Chrome Password Manager is not there yet for me. It lacks mobile OS compatibility and support for third-party browsers. Will Google launch a password manager app in the future? Next up: Check the link below to know more about Dashlane, the best password manager for securing your digital life.