Password management service 1Password has unveiled a new “Nearby Items” feature that allows users to associate stored credentials and other sensitive data with specific physical locations. The launch comes as the company continues to expand its authentication capabilities, following its recent rollout of passkey support for iOS users and broader initiatives to help organizations transition to passwordless authentication.
The new capability lets users assign a single physical location to any item stored in their 1Password vault through a simple “Add a location” option. An integrated map view facilitates easy location setting and visualization of stored items. The location-based authentication approach matches current industry trends, as companies like Google have implemented similar features for enhanced mobile security.
A key aspect of the feature’s security architecture is that all location processing occurs locally on the user’s device, with no location data transmitted to 1Password’s servers. The privacy-first approach reflects growing industry concerns about data protection and follows established best practices for handling sensitive location information. Users can enable or disable the feature through customizable settings in the iOS and Android mobile apps.
When users enter a specified geographic area, associated items automatically surface in the home tab of the 1Password mobile app, eliminating the need to manually search through stored credentials. The functionality builds upon 1Password’s established vault security infrastructure, which has been continuously strengthened following the company’s recent security updates.
“This feature allows you to assign specific locations to items stored in your vaults, which then appear in the 1Password mobile app when you’re near those physical locations,” said Danny Grenzowski from 1Password. “1Password checks for relevant items locally, meaning your current location coordinates never leave your device. We also added an additional layer of protection explicitly around the loading of map data, so you have more granular control.”
The functionality is particularly relevant for information that is location-specific, such as Wi-Fi credentials, medical records at healthcare facilities, workplace security codes, or travel documents at airports. The implementation maintains 1Password’s established focus on user privacy and security while enhancing convenience through location-aware access to stored data. The development represents a significant advancement in mobile credential management, addressing the growing need for secure, context-aware authentication solutions in an increasingly mobile-first world.
Sources: How-To Geek, 10XSheets, Safety Detectives, 9to5Mac
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