How to Change the iPhone Default Password Manager: Step-by-Step
Learn how to change the default password manager on iPhone with a clear, step-by-step approach. Install, configure AutoFill, verify autofill, and follow best practices for secure, seamless sign-ins in 2026.
By the end of this guide you’ll set your preferred password manager as the default on iPhone, so autofill works with your chosen app across websites and apps. Before you begin, install the manager on your iPhone, update to the latest iOS, and ensure AutoFill is enabled. This will streamline logins and improve security.
Why changing the default password manager on
Quick context: how
Prerequisites and what you’ll need before you start
Before changing the default password manager on
The
Step-by-step: detailed sequence to switch the default manager (narrative)
- Install and sign in to the password manager app you want to use by default. This ensures the vault is ready to accept autofill requests. Pro tip: enable MFA in the app for added protection.
- Open Settings on your
Verifying the change and testing autofill across apps and websites
Verification is the final step in ensuring the switch is successful. Start by loading a familiar login form in a browser and in a native app. You should see a prompt from your selected password manager offering to fill in the username and password. Tap the prompt and confirm authentication if required. If autofill does not appear, revisit Steps 2–4 to confirm the correct manager is selected and that AutoFill is enabled. For
Troubleshooting common issues and how to fix them
If autofill isn’t working after the change, check that the password manager app is up to date and that the browser or app you’re using supports autofill for the vault. Confirm that the correct manager is chosen under Fill From. If you use
Security best practices and personal settings to consider
Security isn’t a one-and-done task. Keep your vault’s master password strong and unique, enable MFA, and use passkeys where available. Regularly review 2FA settings for your password manager and set up recovery options in case you lose access. Consider enabling biometric prompts for quick, yet secure, authentication, and periodically audit stored credentials to remove outdated or duplicate entries. Finally, educate household members or colleagues about when and how autofill should be used to prevent credential exposure on shared devices.
How to manage the change across multiple Apple devices
If you use multiple Apple devices, repeat these steps on each device to ensure a consistent default across
Authoritative sources and further reading
- Apple Support: general guidance on Passwords and AutoFill on
Tools & Materials
- iPhone with latest iOS(Update to the latest iOS version (as of 2026))
- Password manager app installed(Ensure the app is updated to the latest version and configured)
- Active credentials for testing(Have test login details ready for autofill testing)
- Biometric access configured (Face ID/Touch ID)(Required for quick, secure authentication during setup)
- Optional: other devices for cross-device testing(iPad or Mac to verify sync and consistency)
Steps
Estimated time: 15-20 minutes
- 1
Install and set up the password manager
Install your chosen password manager on the iPhone and complete initial setup, including creating a strong master password and enabling MFA where available. This ensures the vault is ready to be used as the default autofill source.
Tip: Enable MFA and backup recovery options in the manager’s settings. - 2
Open Settings and locate Passwords
Navigate to Settings, then find Passwords (or Passwords & Accounts) and look for AutoFill Passwords. If AutoFill isn’t visible, update iOS to the latest version to access the correct menu.
Tip: If you don’t see AutoFill, a simple restart can refresh system UI elements. - 3
Turn on AutoFill Passwords
Toggle AutoFill Passwords on and ensure the option to Fill From lists available managers. This sets the stage for switching the default to your chosen app.
Tip: Keep this on for seamless autofill across apps and websites. - 4
Select your default password manager
From Fill From, choose the password manager you want to use by default. This binds autofill requests to that vault.
Tip: If your manager isn’t listed, reopen the app and ensure it’s configured for autofill usage. - 5
Authenticate to confirm the change
You will be prompted to authenticate with Face ID/Touch ID or passcode to confirm the new default manager. This step ensures only you can modify the autofill source.
Tip: Use a strong biometric lock to protect quick access. - 6
Test autofill on a login page
Open a browser or app login page and trigger autofill. The system should present the selected manager’s credentials for filling.
Tip: Try both a website login and a native app login to confirm coverage. - 7
Verify cross-device consistency
If you use multiple devices, repeat on each device to ensure the same default autofill source is active everywhere.
Tip: Sync settings can be checked in the manager’s app or account portal. - 8
Review security settings
Revisit the password manager’s security options, including two-factor authentication and recovery methods, to maintain a high security baseline.
Tip: Document the changes for audit or compliance purposes. - 9
Document the change
Create a short note detailing which manager is default and any device-specific configurations applied. This helps with onboarding and future changes.
Tip: Share the note with household members or team admins as needed.
Your Questions Answered
What is the default password manager on iPhone and how is it chosen?
iPhone uses AutoFill Passwords and can use a third-party password manager as the default. You select the default in Settings > Passwords > AutoFill Passwords (or Fill From). The manager you choose will fill credentials across apps and websites.
On iPhone, AutoFill Passwords is the system mechanism, and you pick the default manager in Settings. The selected app fills your credentials when you log in.
Do I need to disable iCloud Keychain when using a third-party manager?
Disabling iCloud Keychain is optional. If you prefer a single source of truth for autofill, you can disable iCloud Keychain after selecting your default manager. This can prevent conflicts between autofill sources.
You can keep iCloud Keychain on, but if you want one consistent autofill source, consider turning it off for autofill while using a third-party manager.
Will this change sync across my other devices?
Autofill changes typically propagate when you sign in to your password manager on other devices and enable sync. If you use iCloud or the manager’s own cloud, verify that the default is consistent on each device.
Yes, if you have syncing enabled, the default manager should be available on other devices, but double-check on each device.
What should I do if the new manager doesn’t appear in AutoFill options?
Ensure the manager app is installed and supports iOS autofill. Update iOS if needed, then reopen Settings and the AutoFill section. Some apps may require you to grant autofill permissions within the password manager.
If it's not listed, confirm the app supports autofill and try updating iOS or re-opening the AutoFill settings.
How do I revert to iCloud Keychain after changing?
To revert, go to Settings > Passwords > AutoFill Passwords and re-select iCloud Keychain as the default. This will stop using the third-party manager for autofill unless you re-enable it later.
You can switch back to iCloud Keychain in the same AutoFill settings screen.
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Key Takeaways
- Identify and install your preferred password manager.
- Enable AutoFill and set the default manager in Settings.
- Test autofill across websites and apps to verify behavior.
- Maintain strong security: MFA, strong master password, and recovery options.
- Repeat the process on other Apple devices for consistency.
