Wouldn't things be a lot simpler if we did not have to recollect complicated alphanumeric passwords and could simply unlock our device's screen by merely keying in a few random numbers instead?
Google hears you! That's right, the company is working on an experimental feature that allows you to unlock your device's screen by simply inputting a PIN code like you do with your debit or credit card. This PIN must simply be keyed in to the Chrome OS, negating the need for one to type complex passwords.
This is no rumor and the news comes straight from the horse's mouth: a Google employee who shared the exciting information in a Google+ post.
On Friday, Aug. 19, François Beaufort, who is with Google France, revealed that the experimental feature is being tested as part of the latest developer update for Chrome OS.
Beaufort also shared the process on how users could deploy the functionality into their system. For those wondering how to go about unlocking their device's screen with a PIN on Chrome OS, here's a step-by-step guide to help you out.
Step 1: Enable the following flag: chrome://flags/#quick-unlock-pin
Step 2: Next, restart Chrome.
Step 3: Once started, navigate to the settings page for Chrome Material Design. This is required so that you can set up the PIN for the Lock Screen.
Step 4: Navigate to the new "Screen Lock" section. Set up the numeric PIN you have chosen for the Lock Screen.
Step 5: Make a mental note of your PIN and then press Search button + L simultaneously to lock the screen.
Step 6: Key in the PIN, and watch yourself unlock the Chrome OS with a code rather than a password!
The experimental functionality is bound to find favor with users of touch devices as it is quite handy. Moreover, inputting a PIN instead of an alphanumeric password is a lot simpler. This is possibly far more secure than deploying an Android phone for the Smart Lock option as Engadget points out.
The move is being lauded by Chrome OS fans, but as a user rightly pointed out the PIN functionality could be more expansive.
"This is a good move in the right direction. However I think that this pin lock feature should be expanded to also include passwords. So the password is not linked to the Google account but a separate password just for the device," commented the user.
Since the feature is still being tested, perhaps Google will enhance it further before the final version is pushed out. Users can also look forward to Quick Unlock settings landing on the regular settings page for Chrome in the near future as revealed by Beaufort.
Those keen on more can check the source code out at this link.
