Why does Stripe focus on redirects for passkeys?

Stripe’s decision to implement a redirect-based passkeys approach for its developer dashboard is likely driven by considerations around security, compatibility, scalability, and ease of integration.

Redirect flows work seamlessly across all major browsers without facing restrictions like Safari’s cross-origin limitations. This ensures that all users, regardless of browser, experience smooth and consistent authentication.

By leveraging redirects, Stripe avoids the technical complexity and compatibility challenges associated with embedding passkeys via iframes. This streamlined implementation allows Stripe to deliver rapid deployments and easier ongoing maintenance.

Redirect flows occur entirely within Stripe’s own secure domain, improving the provider’s ability to manage compliance (such as PCI DSS and PSD2 SCA) and monitor for fraud or unusual activity.

Stripe’s developer dashboard strategy may signal a similar future approach for consumer payment authentication:

• Stripe might leverage a redirect model for consumer-facing checkout, benefiting from existing technical expertise and a robust, secure infrastructure.
• Redirect-based passkey flows could enable Stripe to provide reliable, frictionless experiences, potentially driving higher adoption rates across merchant integrations.

By validating the Stripe passkeys approach in developer environments, Stripe establishes a secure and scalable foundation that could smoothly extend to broader payment scenarios, minimizing technical risks and ensuring a unified user experience across platforms.