The device would be made available to everyone via the Google web store. The hardware key is to improve the security of an account. A user can only log in if the device is nearby. Google has been offering other security methods for a while, including two-step verification with a mobile app or text messages. The search giant will offer two versions of the Titan Security Key. One connects via USB to a computer, while a second model uses bluetooth to connect wirelessly to a smartphone.

Google has already offered users the opportunity to log in with a hardware key created by another manufacturer. However, the company did not have a device of its own until now. The gadgets contain special firmware, which checks with Google whether a login attempt is legitimate. The hardware keys use the FIDO standard, they also work on other websites.

Google will sell hardware keys to improve account security