A new update to Authenticator for Android and iOS allows for backups of codes in your Google account to be stored, meaning users won’t be locked out indefinitely if they lose a device with stored codes. Users will no longer have to reauthorize their linked apps if they get a new phone.
The latest version of Authenticator will let users follow prompts to sign into Google and enable syncing. The company says, “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.”
It has been discovered by the software company Mysk that the new two-factor authentication tool does not feature end-to-end encryption.
The update also features a new logo for the app.
Despite adding passkey support in Android and Chrome, Google still understands that one-time codes are sometimes necessary for people looking to get back into their accounts. Thankfully, the new update to the app may encourage users to opt for two-factor authentication for increased protection of their devices.
Google joins companies like Microsoft, which has its own cloud backup in Microsoft Authenticator.
For more Google news, read about how the company may soon offer new AI tools in its ad program.
Update 04/27/2023: This story has been updated to show that the new two-factor authentication tool does not feature end-to-end encryption.
Header image credit: Google
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