How to move Google Authenticator to your new iPhone

Google Authenticator on iOS

If you're upgrading to a new iPhone from an old one, or from an Android device, then you need to take steps to make sure that Google Authenticator continues to work as you'd expect.

Google Authenticator is an app and a service that provides the security benefits of two-step authentication without the risks involved in text messages. If you rely on it, then you tend to use it every day and possibly even multiple times a day, in which case you need it to work with your new device.

If you're upgrading to an iPhone 13, from an older iPhone, or an Android phone, then there are certain steps you need to go through.

Setting up the new phone

Install Google Authenticator on the new iPhone
On your old iPhone, open the app
Tap the ellipses button at top right
Choose Export Accounts
On the next page, tap Continue
When prompted, allow Authenticator to use Face ID
Pick one or more of the accounts listed on the next page
Tap Export
On your new iPhone, open the Google Authenticator app
Use the app on the new iPhone to scan the QR code that appears on your old iPhone

This then sets up your new iPhone to have all of the Google accounts you had on the old one.

There is one more choice, which is to decide whether you want to keep the codes on that old one as well. You're prompted to choose that or removing the codes, and then you're done.

As an expert in digital security and authentication methods, it's imperative to understand the intricacies of tools like Google Authenticator, which plays a pivotal role in enhancing the security of online accounts. Having an in-depth knowledge of this subject, I can confidently guide you through the steps outlined in the article, shedding light on the concepts involved.

Google Authenticator Overview: Google Authenticator is a widely-used app and service designed to bolster the security of online accounts by implementing two-step authentication. Unlike traditional methods involving text messages, Google Authenticator reduces the risks associated with SMS-based authentication.

Transitioning to a New iPhone: When upgrading to a new iPhone, especially the iPhone 13, maintaining the functionality of Google Authenticator becomes crucial. Google has streamlined the process to make this transition more user-friendly than ever before.

Setting Up 2-Step Verification: Before transferring Google Authenticator to a new iPhone, it's essential to have 2-step Verification set up on your Google account. This additional layer of security ensures that your authentication codes remain safeguarded.

Transferring Google Authenticator to a New iPhone: The process involves several key steps:

Install Google Authenticator on the New iPhone: Ensure that you have the Google Authenticator app installed on your new iPhone. This can be done by downloading it from the App Store.
Exporting Accounts from the Old iPhone: Open the Google Authenticator app on your old iPhone, tap the ellipses button at the top right, and choose "Export Accounts." Follow the prompts, allowing Authenticator to use Face ID and selecting the accounts you want to transfer.
Scanning the QR Code on the New iPhone: On the new iPhone, open the Google Authenticator app and use it to scan the QR code displayed on your old iPhone. This action effectively transfers all Google accounts from the old device to the new one.
Choosing to Keep or Remove Codes on the Old Device: You're given the option to decide whether you want to retain the authentication codes on the old iPhone or remove them. This step allows for flexibility based on your security preferences.

By understanding these concepts and following the outlined steps, users can seamlessly transition Google Authenticator to a new iPhone, ensuring the continued security of their online accounts. This process reflects the evolving landscape of digital security, with Google's efforts to simplify and enhance user experiences.

How to move Google Authenticator to your new iPhone | AppleInsider (2024)

Setting up the new phone