This week, Google announced the addition of a USB-C variant to its Titan security key collection, which now includes NFC functionality. This model will be offered in addition to the currently available USB-A variant with NFC. The Bluetooth version of this product has been discontinued.

According to Google's security blog, the new Titan USB-C model is being introduced as part of the company's efforts to streamline its security key offering. In the future, the company will only sell the USB-A and USB-C versions of the device, both of which are NFC-enabled by default. It is unclear whether Google will continue to sell the old Titan USB-C form without NFC, but considering that Google is talking about a range that includes "a USB-A version and a USB-C version with NFC," this appears to be quite doubtful.

It has been reported that the new model is being developed in partnership with the manufacturer Feitian; it would be a modified Feitian ePass K40 that would have modified software. Using NFC, for example, the security keys can be used on cellphones to authenticate transactions. The old Bluetooth model is no longer available for purchase, although it continues to function.

The USB-A model, which costs $30, comes with a USB-A to C converter included. According to Google, the new USB-C model will cost $35 and will not include an adaptor, as previously reported. The new security keys are not currently available on the Google Store in the United States, and it is unclear whether the keys will be made available in other countries, such as the Netherlands and Belgium. It was not possible to purchase the previous generations in the United States, while some other European nations did sell the older USB-C type.

A physical security key, such as one of Google's Titan models, can be used as part of a two-step verification process to protect your account. In addition, security keys give enhanced protection against phishing attacks.