GoKawiilGoogle explains how to move Authenticator codes to a new phone
Google Authenticator versions 6.0+ on Android and 4.0+ on iOS automatically sync two-factor codes to the cloud when linked to a Google account, letting users recover them by signing into the same account on a new device. Users who prefer not to sync via Google can instead manually transfer codes by exporting a QR code from the old phone's Transfer Accounts menu and importing it on the new one.
GoKawiil's interpretation of the reporting above, not reported fact.
Losing access to authenticator codes during a phone upgrade can lock users out of accounts protected by two-factor authentication, so a reliable transfer method reduces a common pain point in device migration. Offering both cloud-based and manual QR options suggests Google is trying to balance convenience with the privacy concerns of users wary of syncing security codes over its network.
- Cloud sync works automatically for Authenticator 6.0+ (Android) or 4.0+ (iOS) tied to a Google account
- Manual transfer via QR code avoids using Google's cloud but requires the old phone
- Checking the cloud icon next to the account icon confirms whether codes are already backed up
Source: engadget.com — Jack Peachey, 2026-11-08
Published there as: “How to set up Google Authenticator on a new phone”
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