Microsoft Revamps Account Sign-In for a Passwordless Future
Microsoft is overhauling the Microsoft Account (MSA) sign-in process across its web platforms, mobile apps, and eventually Windows. This update, detailed in a post on Microsoft’s blog, aims to create a modern, unified experience that aligns with the company’s vision for a passwordless future.
By the end of April, most users will encounter a completely revamped login and registration flow. The new process is designed to simplify the sign-in experience with fewer elements per screen and better scalability for various screen sizes.
Key Updates in the New Sign-In Experience
One of the most significant updates is the shift toward passwordless sign-ins using passkeys. As part of the new experience, users will be prompted to create a passkey upon logging in, which will be the default sign-in method moving forward.
For users who don’t have a passkey, Microsoft will automatically default to an email address as the login method, which also provides a simple way to reset the account if needed. Microsoft is encouraging users to add a recovery email address to enhance security and account recovery.
The login flow also embraces a more cohesive Microsoft aesthetic. The classic logo will appear front and center, and all services—whether Xbox, Microsoft 365, or Outlook—will share the same background image. Buttons and links will be color-matched to the service, providing a consistent look across Microsoft platforms.
The new sign-in experience is expected to be fully rolled out by April.
