Migrating Authenticator Codes to Your New Device: Complete Guide

When you upgrade to a new smartphone or device, transferring your authenticator codes is essential for maintaining secure access to your accounts. The Google Authenticator app provides two straightforward methods to migrate your codes, each suited to different situations. This guide walks you through both approaches to ensure a smooth transition.

Before You Transfer: Preparation Checklist

Before proceeding with either transfer method, ensure you’re ready:

• Confirm that Google Authenticator is already installed on your new device
• Have your PIN code ready (you’ll need it during export)
• Keep your existing phone accessible until the transfer completes
• Write down which accounts you plan to transfer for reference
• Ensure both devices have stable internet connectivity

Method 1: Migrate Using QR Code Scan

This is the fastest and most user-friendly approach for moving your authenticator codes between devices.

On Your Existing Device:

1. Open the Google Authenticator app and tap the three-dot menu icon in the upper right corner
2. Select Transfer accounts from the menu options
3. Choose Export accounts and enter your PIN when prompted
4. Select which accounts you want to migrate to your new phone
5. Tap Next to proceed
6. The app will generate a QR code—keep this displayed on your screen

On Your New Device:

1. Open Google Authenticator and access the three-dot menu in the top right corner
2. Tap Transfer accounts
3. Select Import accounts to begin restoration
4. Choose Scan QR codes to initiate the scanning process
5. Point your new device’s camera at the QR code shown on your old phone
6. Once scanned successfully, your authenticator transfer completes immediately

Your accounts should now appear in the authenticator app on your new device with active authentication codes.

Method 2: Using Recovery Key for Manual Entry

If QR code scanning isn’t available or you prefer manual setup, the Recovery Key method provides an alternative way to restore your authenticator access.

Setting Up on Your New Device:

1. Download and open Google Authenticator on your new phone
2. Tap the + (plus) icon located at the bottom of the screen
3. Select Manual entry from the setup options
4. In the Key field, paste or type your Recovery Key Phrase
5. You can add any descriptive text in the Account field to help identify this entry if you’re managing multiple accounts
6. Complete the setup to generate your authentication codes

This method is particularly useful if you’ve saved your recovery keys separately or need to restore access without your original device present.

Troubleshooting: When Authenticator Transfer Encounters Issues

If your generated codes don’t work after transfer or you experience complications:

• Verify that both devices have the current version of Google Authenticator installed
• Check that your device clocks are synchronized (time skew can cause code mismatches)
• Ensure you selected the correct accounts during the transfer process
• Try syncing your Google Authenticator if codes still aren’t functioning
• For persistent problems, consider using your account recovery options through the associated service

By following these transfer methods, you can safely migrate your authenticator security codes whenever you switch to a new device, maintaining uninterrupted access to your protected accounts.