Last year, Google released the Titan security key. It can be used as an ultra-secure method for two-factor authentication for some online services over USB-A, NFC, or Bluetooth. Today, Google announced an updated USB-C key to the lineup, which will be available tomorrow from the Google Store for $40.
The new USB-C key appears to have similar functionality to its previous models, all of which are built to the
FIDO standard.
The USB-C model lacks the NFC capabilities that its other two keys have, but this shouldn’t matter much, as the USB-C design is meant to plug directly into modern devices such as phones, tablets, and ultra-thin laptops. In that context, NFC becomes largely unnecessary.
Google’s new USB-C key is compatible with Android, Chrome OS, macOS, and Windows devices. (Only the Bluetooth key works with iOS, and it requires the installation of Google’s Smart Lock app.) Like its previous keys, Google says the USB-C key’s firmware is permanently sealed into a secure element hardware chip, making the key more resistant to physical tampering and cloning attempts.
Google partnered with security key-maker
Yubico
to manufacture its new USB-C key. Google’s key looks a lot like Yubico’s YubiKey 5C. Both keys are similar in size and form factor, but Yubico’s keys support a wider range of protocols, including WebAuthn, which may make them a better fit for users with more advanced authentication requirements.
From a practical standpoint, hardware security keys continue to be one of the strongest defenses against phishing attacks, account takeovers, and credential reuse. Because the authentication process requires physical possession of the key, attackers can’t simply steal a password or intercept a code remotely. For users managing sensitive accounts or enterprise logins, this added layer of protection is increasingly becoming a baseline rather than an optional extra.
Google’s other two Titan security keys were previously only available as a $50 bundle, but Google says you’ll be able to buy them individually starting tomorrow. The USB-A / NFC key will cost $25, while the Bluetooth key,
which can also be plugged in over Micro USB, will cost $35.
