Facebook Joins OpenID, Universal Login Still Not Here

OpenID is a great idea: One login using a trusted provider that works across the web. The problem is that it is still a clunky experience. Facebook Connect does the same thing, but ridiculously simple. That’s why we should all rejoice as the news that Facebook is joining the OpenID Foundation board hits us! Although they have yet to announce actual support for OpenID login, the knowledge they bring is important, and it is a sign of things to come. I’m pretty sure Facebook will be an OpenID provider soon enough, hopefully by making everything a lot simpler for the users. That will benefit all, not just the evil social network that can’t stop growing. If you disagree, do check out this ReadWriteWeb post.

Chances are you’ll be logging in using Facebook Connect powered by OpenID when you publish your Blog Herald praise comments in the future. Or a Google similar branded OpenID-thingy. That is a good thing, no matter what logo you slap on it. More over at Techmeme.

Thord Daniel Hedengren

Thord Daniel Hedengren is a designer, writer, and blogger, and also the former editor of The Blog Herald. He used to be a hotshot in the gaming industry in Sweden, but sold everything and went International. Most recently he wrote a book called Smashing WordPress: Beyond the Blog, and does loads of kickass design.