Can I use Security Key on Mac and still have 6-digit on iPhone?

To use security keys to protect your AppleID, ALL devices on the same AppleID must be protected by them.

When Security Keys are installed and enabled, they become the ONLY 2nd Factor method able to grant access your AppleID other than with a Trusted Device.

i.e. It turns off the familiar “pop-ups” on Trusted Devices, as well as the ability to send codes to Trusted Numbers.

Even the ability to self-generate TOTP 6-digit verification codes on a trusted device is disabled.

However, keys CAN be easily deleted from a Trusted Device which DOES immediately restore the previously-configured setup to receive and generate verification codes.

Let’s try it this way.

First: Security Keys are physical devices which you first purchase and then register to your AppleID.

Next: They replace the current 6-digit verification code scheme needed to access your AppleID from an untrusted device.

So in almost any “normal” situation you do NOT need your physical key. (No more or less frequently than you currently need to use your 6-digit Verification Code)

You DO need your physical key to login to your AppleID from an untrusted device.

Some examples of this “need” might be:

1. Accessing your iCloud from a someone elses computer when you’ve lost your iPhone.
2. Setting up a replacement phone.

So, while you don’t “normally” need a physical key… when you DO need it, you might well need it fairly urgently.

So, ensuring continued physical access to a physical key is an important consideration; ESPECIALLY for frequent travelers.

I am not quite connecting with this answer. If I create physical key I am expecting it to prevent access to or resetting of my Apple ID. But does that now require for routine use of the phone or Mac I have to use the key as well? Meaning I have to carry the key with me as well as the phone?

Hope you can clear that question up. Thanks!

Put another way; when I’m in my home area, I do NOT carry a key, as i have it at home.

When I’m travelling, I don’t carry it but I DO have one in the hotel.

When I’m away for weeks, I keep one at the site where I’m working, and another in my suitcase wherever I’m lodged.

You’re welcome.

That's what I was looking for. Thanks!

You’re certainly welcome. 👋

My yubikey 5NFC works fine with Amazon on laptop but it won’t let me sign in to Amazon on my iPhone using key