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To sync your Google Authenticator codes, install or open the app on the new device and sign in to the same Google Account that holds the codes. Google says the saved codes sync automatically. If you use Authenticator without a Google Account, transfer the codes directly from your old device using the app’s QR export and import process instead.
Sync codes with your Google Account
Google Account sync is the simplest option when your codes are saved to an account. This is an Authenticator app sign-in process, not a restore from your phone’s general device backup. Google’s instructions list Android 6.0 or later and Google Authenticator for iOS 4.0 or later as prerequisites for the sync feature. See Google’s instructions for Google Authenticator.
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- Install or open Google Authenticator on the new device.
- Sign in to the same Google Account used in Authenticator on the old device.
- Allow the app to sync. Google says the account’s saved codes are synced automatically.
Transfer codes without using a Google Account
If you chose “Use Authenticator without an account,” the codes are stored on the device rather than synced through a Google Account. You can move them with the app’s QR transfer, provided you still have access to the old device. Google says the old device needs the latest Authenticator version for export. Menu wording may vary by app version or platform; the current help page uses “Transfer codes,” “Export codes,” and “Import codes.”
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- Unlock the device when prompted, then select the entries you want to move.
- On the new device, open Authenticator and choose Import codes.
- Scan the QR code shown on the old device. If the export creates several QR codes, scan each one as directed.
- Keep the old device available until Authenticator confirms the transfer on the new one.
Choose the method that fits your setup
| Method | Where codes are stored | What you need |
|---|---|---|
| Google Account sync | Saved to the Google Account and synced in Authenticator | Sign in to that same account in Authenticator on the new device |
| QR transfer | On the device when using Authenticator without an account | Access to the old device, its unlock method, and the export/import QR process |
Google says choosing “Use Authenticator without an account” removes codes from Google Accounts and stores them on the device, so they are not available on other devices through account sync. If you lose the only device holding those codes, Google’s cited instructions do not establish a way to recover them; you may need to use each affected service’s account-recovery process.
#1 Best Overall
- POWERFUL SECURITY KEY: The Security Key C NFC is the essential physical passkey for protecting your digital life from phishing attacks. It ensures only you can access your accounts.
- WORKS WITH 1000+ ACCOUNTS: Compatible with Google, Microsoft, and Apple. A single Security Key C NFC secures 100 of your favorite accounts, including email, password managers, and more.
- FAST & CONVENIENT LOGIN: Plug in your Security Key C NFC via USB-C and tap it, or tap it against your phone (NFC) to authenticate. No batteries, no internet connection, and no extra fees required.
- TRUSTED PASSKEY TECHNOLOGY: Uses the latest passkey standards (FIDO2/WebAuthn & FIDO U2F) but does not support One-Time Passwords. For complex needs, check out the YubiKey 5 Series.
- BUILT TO LAST: Made from tough, waterproof, and crush-resistant materials. Manufactured in Sweden and programmed in the USA with the highest security standards.
If you cannot use an Authenticator code to sign in
Google Account backup codes are a separate fallback for signing in to your Google Account when the usual second verification step is unavailable. They do not restore Authenticator entries for Google or other services. Each backup code can be used once, and generating a new set deactivates the previous set. Google says backup codes are not available for download to accounts enrolled in Advanced Protection. Details are in Google’s backup-code instructions.
Quick Recap
Rank #4
- POWERFUL SECURITY KEY: The YubiKey 5C Nano is the most versatile physical passkey, protecting your digital life from phishing attacks. It ensures only you can access your accounts
- WORKS WITH 1000+ ACCOUNTS: Compatible with popular accounts like Google, Microsoft, and Apple. A single YubiKey 5C Nano secures 100+ of your favorite accounts, including email, password managers, and more
- FAST & CONVENIENT LOGIN: The YubiKey 5C Nano is designed to stay plugged into your device via USB-C. Simply tap it to authenticate. No batteries, no internet connection, and no extra fees required
- MOST SECURE PASSKEY: Supports FIDO2/WebAuthn, FIDO U2F, Yubico OTP, OATH-TOTP/HOTP, Smart card (PIV), and OpenPGP. That means it’s versatile, working almost anywhere you need it
- PRIMARY & SPARE KEYS: Just like having a spare house key, we recommend buying two YubiKeys - one for daily use and one as a spare. That way you’ll never get locked out of your accounts
Rank #3
- FIDO2 & Passkey Ready: Business-ready and FIDO2 L1 certified. This key is supported by major management suites and is ideal for both individual and enterprise deployment. Works seamlessly with Gmail, Facebook, GitHub, Dropbox, Coinbase, and more.
- Dedicated Manager App: Use the Thetis Manager App for the initial hardware PIN setup. Setting the PIN on the device first ensures a smooth registration process. Once the PIN is configured, you can begin registering the key across your favorite FIDO2-compatible online services.
- USB TYPE C Connectivity & DONGLE Design: Designed for PCs, Macs, laptops, iPhones, and Android devices that utilize a USB-C port. Plug and stay, or carry it on a keychain. (Item Size: 0.73 x 0.60 x 0.30 inches)
- Enhanced MFA (FIDO2 & TOTP/HOTP): Strengthen your security with flexible options. Use the Manager App to access TOTP/HOTP features for accounts that do not yet support FIDO2.
- Check FIDO2 compatibility before purchase - Known limitations: ID Austria is not supported (requires FIDO2 Level 2). Windows Hello login only works with Windows Enterprise editions that support Entra ID. NFC functionality is not supported.
Rank #2
- POWERFUL SECURITY KEY: The YubiKey 5C NFC is the most versatile physical passkey, protecting your digital life from phishing attacks. It ensures only you can access your accounts
- WORKS WITH 1000+ ACCOUNTS: Compatible with popular accounts like Google, Microsoft, and Apple. A single YubiKey 5C NFC secures 100+ of your favorite accounts, including email, password managers, and more
- FAST & CONVENIENT LOGIN: Plug in your YubiKey 5C NFC via USB and tap it, or tap it against your phone (NFC), to authenticate. No batteries, no internet connection, and no extra fees required
- MOST SECURE PASSKEY: Supports FIDO2/WebAuthn, FIDO U2F, Yubico OTP, OATH-TOTP/HOTP, Smart card (PIV), and OpenPGP. That means it’s versatile, working almost anywhere you need it
- PRIMARY & SPARE KEYS: Just like having a spare house key, we recommend buying two YubiKeys - one for daily use and one as a spare. That way you’ll never get locked out of your accounts
Useful details about Authenticator codes
- Google says Authenticator can generate codes without an internet connection or mobile service.
- In Authenticator version 7.0, the app’s time correction setting is no longer available; the app uses the device operating system’s time setting.
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