Why do post-sign-in passkey prompts perform better?

Post-sign-in passkey prompts consistently outperform other nudge methods—such as account settings prompts, in-app banners, or prompts after password resets—because they strategically leverage the user’s immediate authentication mindset and context.

Users are already in an authentication context, having just completed a successful login, making them more receptive to messages about improving their login experience in the future.

Every active user encounters the login screen eventually, ensuring that the passkey creation message reaches the entire user base, unlike passive methods like settings pages or occasional password resets.

Immediately after login, users clearly understand the relevance of securing their account. They are more likely to follow prompts that promise an easier or more secure login next time.

Enterprises such as Amazon, Google, and Microsoft have documented significantly higher passkey adoption rates through post-sign-in prompts. For example:

• Amazon achieved up to 6× faster logins by deploying post-sign-in nudges.
• Google found convenience-focused messages after login led to billions of successful passkey sign-ins.

Post-sign-in prompts feel natural and unobtrusive. Users expect actions related to login during this stage, making them less resistant compared to disruptive in-app banners or unrelated prompts.

In summary, post-sign-in passkey prompts leverage optimal timing, user context, and cognitive readiness, significantly outperforming other nudging methods in driving initial passkey creation, enhancing both adoption rates and user experience.