Before you start
- The old phone (if possible)
- Google Authenticator on the new phone
Method 1 Option 1: cloud sync (easiest)
Synced codes are protected by your Google Account, so make sure that account has strong 2-Step Verification.
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Step 1: On the old phone
Open Google Authenticator. If you see an account icon with a cloud, sign in with your Google Account to back up codes.
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Step 2: On the new phone
Install Authenticator, open it and sign in with the same Google Account. Your codes appear automatically.
Method 2 Option 2: transfer with a QR code
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Step 1: Export on the old phone
Tap ⋮ (or ☰) > Transfer accounts > Export accounts, verify it’s you, select the accounts and tap Next. A QR code appears.
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Step 2: Import on the new phone
Open Authenticator on the new phone, tap Import existing accounts? or ⋮ > Transfer accounts > Import accounts, and scan the code.
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Step 3: Verify
Check codes on the new phone sign you in to a couple of services before removing them from the old one.
Method 3 Lost the old phone?
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Step 1: Use backup codes
Sign in to each service with its backup codes and set up Authenticator again in that service’s security settings.
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Step 2: Google account
Use another sign-in method (Google prompt on another device, phone number, security key) or g.co/recover.
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Step 3: Other services
Use each service’s account recovery process; it may require identity verification.
Troubleshooting
Codes are rejected
The phone’s clock may be wrong. Set time to automatic. On Android, Authenticator also has Settings > Time correction for codes on some versions.
Some accounts are missing after sync
Accounts added before sync was turned on may need exporting via QR.
Frequently asked questions
Is cloud sync safe?
It’s convenient and protected by your Google Account. If you prefer, use QR transfer only and keep codes offline.
Can I use another authenticator app?
Yes. Microsoft Authenticator, 1Password and others work with the same QR setup codes.
Summary
Sign in to Google Authenticator on both phones to sync codes, or use Transfer accounts > Export and scan the QR code on the new phone. Test before resetting the old phone, and keep backup codes for emergencies.
