Chrome: Ford KeyFree is a Chrome extension that automatically logs into your Google, Facebook, and Twitter logins when your phone is near your computer, then logs you out when you walk away. It's made by the car company; it looks awesome.


The extension, which unfortunately is currently not available to download as far as we can find, allows you to approve your phone as a key (using Bluetooth) to your Google, Facebook, and Twitter accounts; when your device is in proximity of your computer, you're logged into those sites. When you walk away, you're logged out. It's bizarre that it was made by Ford (apparently an attempt to promote keyless entry in their cars), and it's potentially great.

The idea is far from brand new. In 2007 I walked through how to automate computer actions using your location and your phone's proximity to your computer; unfortunately Home Zone (the app that made it all happen) is no longer available. But now that we're all carrying Bluetooth-capable devices everywhere we go, the whole idea of keyless entry into your most-used web sites seems pretty ripe.


Who knows, maybe LastPass or 1Password will be inspired to integrate a similar feature. In the meantime, we'll keep an eye out for Ford's (bizarre) experiment to hit servers again.

G/O Media may get a commission LG 75" 8K TV Buy for $2150 from BuyDig Use the promo code ASL250

Note: Someone more familiar with Bluetooth security—particularly with how easy it is to spoof a Bluetooth device—may want to weigh in on the possible security holes in the whole idea. If it is easy to spoof a Bluetooth device, a nice middle ground might still exist that would prompt for a simple PIN or something a little easier to type in could still provide a second level of security to the whole enterprise. Give us your knowledge in the comments.

Ford Schools Apple With Clever Phone Login App…Wait, What? | Fast Company Design via Gizmodo