Google Authenticator Introduces Google Account Synchronization for Easier 2FA Code Backup

Google Authenticator is a valuable Google service that is underutilized by many people. With the increasing adoption of two-factor authentication (2FA), it is becoming apparent that relying on text messages as a second form of verification is not secure enough. Therefore, using a service like Google Authenticator is an easy alternative to switch to.

Although using Google Authenticator is generally easy, it can become complicated if the device storing your 2FA codes is lost or stolen. However, Google has announced a change to Google Authenticator that should help users deal with this situation. The service now supports Google Account synchronization on both iOS and Android, allowing users to back up their one-time codes to their Google Account. This is a significant improvement.

Google has received feedback over the years regarding the complexity of dealing with a lost or stolen device when using Google Authenticator. The account synchronization feature should make this less of an issue, as your codes can now be stored in your Google Account. The new version of Authenticator with account synchronization should be rolling out as version 6.0. Users simply need to update the app to the newest version and follow some prompts to get started.

The update process is straightforward, with the first prompt asking users to choose their Google Account to sync to. From there, users can start adding codes, switch between light and dark mode, transfer accounts, change accounts, and more. Additionally, the app icon has been updated from the old grey “G” logo to a more colorful image.