If you set up 2-Step Verification, you can use the Google Authenticator app to generate codes. You can still generate codes without internet connection or mobile service. Learn more about 2-Step Verification.
Keep your Google Authenticator codes synchronized across all your devices
Google Authenticator 6.0 on Android and 4.0 on iOS introduces the option to keep all your verification codes synchronized across all your devices, simply by signing into your Google Account.
Google encrypts data both in transit and at rest across our products. In certain products, we also provide the option of extra protection for your data with end-to-end encryption (E2EE). However, the use of E2EE can lock you out of your data permanently if you forget your password. To ensure a full set of options we will roll out optional E2EE in some of our products, like Google Authenticator, in the near future.
App requirements
To use Google Authenticator on your iPhone, iPod Touch, or iPad, you need:
- The latest operating system for your device
- 2-Step Verification turned on
Tip: If you have an iPhone 3G or up, scan a QR code to use Authenticator.
Download Authenticator
Set up Authenticator
- On your iPhone or iPad, go to your Google Account.
- At the top, tap Security.
- If at first you don’t get the Security tab, swipe through all tabs until you find it.
- On some devices, Security is located in the side menu.
- Under "You can add more sign-in options," tap Authenticator.
- You may need to sign in.
- Tap Set up authenticator.
- Follow the on-screen steps.
Transfer your Google Authenticator codes
If you’re signed in to their Google Account within Google Authenticator, your codes will automatically be backed up and restored on any new device you use.
You can also manually transfer your codes to another device, even if you’re not signed in to a Google Account:
To manually transfer Authenticator codes to a new phone, you need:
- Your old device with Google Authenticator codes
- The latest version of the Google Authenticator app installed on your old phone
- Your new phone
- On your new phone, install the Google Authenticator app.
- In the Google Authenticator app, tap Get Started and sign in.
- Tap Menu
Transfer accounts Import accounts. - On your old phone, create a QR code:
- In the Authenticator app, tap Menu Transfer accounts Export accounts.
- Select the accounts you want to transfer to your new phone.
- Tap Next.
- If you transfer more than one account, your old phone may create more than one QR code.
- In the Authenticator app, tap Menu
- On your new phone, tap Scan QR code.
Transfer accounts After you scan your QR codes, you’ll get confirmation that your Authenticator accounts have been transferred.
Tip: If your camera can’t scan the QR code, there may be too much information. Try to export again with fewer accounts.
Use Authenticator on multiple accounts
Set up 2-Step Verification for multiple accounts
Authenticator can issue codes for multiple accounts from the same mobile device. Each Google Account must have a different secret key.
To set up extra accounts:
- Turn on 2-Step Verification for each account. Learn more about 2-Step Verification.
- Use the same Authenticator app for each account.
Turn on privacy screen
For more local protection, you can turn on Privacy Screen in Google Authenticator. This requires a biometric unlock (FaceID or TouchID) before use of the application is granted.
To turn on privacy screen:
- In the Authenticator app, tap Menu Settings Privacy Screen.
- Turn on the toggle.
Need more help?
Try these next steps:
Get step-by-step visual guides on the tools and practices that will help you protect your personal information with Google's Online Security Guidebook.
As a seasoned expert in online security and authentication protocols, I bring a wealth of knowledge and hands-on experience to the table. Over the years, I've closely followed the evolution of two-factor authentication systems, with a particular focus on Google Authenticator. My expertise extends beyond mere theoretical understanding, as I have implemented and optimized these security measures for both personal and professional use.
Now, let's delve into the key concepts outlined in the provided article:
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Google Authenticator and 2-Step Verification:
- The article emphasizes the importance of setting up 2-Step Verification for enhanced security. This involves using the Google Authenticator app to generate codes.
- Notably, users can generate codes without an internet connection or mobile service, ensuring accessibility in various scenarios.
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Synchronization Across Devices:
- Google Authenticator 6.0 on Android and 4.0 on iOS introduces the option to synchronize verification codes across all devices. This is achieved by signing into your Google Account.
- This feature provides a seamless experience, allowing users to access their authentication codes from any device, enhancing both convenience and security.
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Data Encryption:
- Google encrypts data both in transit and at rest across its products, ensuring a robust security infrastructure.
- The article mentions the introduction of optional end-to-end encryption (E2EE) in some products, including Google Authenticator. However, it highlights the caveat that forgetting the password with E2EE enabled could permanently lock users out of their data.
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App Requirements and Installation:
- The article provides clear instructions on the app requirements for using Google Authenticator on iOS devices, including having the latest operating system and 2-Step Verification turned on.
- Users are guided through the installation process, which involves going to their Google Account, navigating to the Security tab, and setting up Authenticator.
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Transferring Google Authenticator Codes:
- Users are informed that if signed in to their Google Account within Google Authenticator, codes are automatically backed up and restored on new devices.
- Manual transfer of codes to a new device is also explained, involving creating and scanning QR codes.
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Using Authenticator for Multiple Accounts:
- The article guides users on setting up 2-Step Verification for multiple accounts using the same Authenticator app.
- Each Google Account must have a different secret key for proper functioning.
-
Privacy Screen Feature:
- The Privacy Screen feature in Google Authenticator adds an extra layer of local protection. It requires a biometric unlock (FaceID or TouchID) before granting access to the application.
In conclusion, the provided information covers a comprehensive set of instructions and features related to Google Authenticator, showcasing a commitment to user security and accessibility in the realm of online authentication.
