How to Transfer Authenticator Apps to a New Android Device

Step by step

1. 1 min

   Enable cloud synchronization on the source device

   Open your primary authenticator app on your old device. Navigate to Settings and select Cloud Sync or Account Backup. Ensure your Google account is linked and that a backup has been successfully created within the last hour.

   Note: If your app does not support cloud sync, you must perform a manual export using QR codes.
2. 1 min

   Download the authenticator app on the new device

   Install the exact same authenticator application from the Google Play Store onto your new Android device. Launch the app and sign in with the same Google account used for backups on your previous device.

   Note: Ensure the application version is identical to avoid compatibility issues during the restoration process.
3. 2 min

   Initiate the restoration process

   Within the authenticator app on the new device, locate the prompts for existing user setup. Select Restore from backup or Transfer accounts. Follow the on-screen instructions to verify your identity via your Google account credentials.

   Note: Some apps may require you to enter a recovery code or perform a secondary biometric verification.
4. 2 min

   Perform manual export for non-cloud apps

   If no cloud option exists, open the app on the old device and select Export Accounts. Select the accounts you wish to move and tap Next to generate a QR code. On the new device, select Import Accounts and choose Scan QR code to capture the data from the old screen.

   Note: The export QR code is highly sensitive; do not share or save screenshots of this screen.
5. 30 sec

   Test account functionality

   Verify that the time-based codes on the new device match the codes on the old device. Attempt a login to a secondary service, such as a cloud storage account, to confirm the new device generates valid tokens.

   Note: If codes do not match, verify the Time Correction setting in the app’s advanced settings.
6. 30 sec

   Remove accounts from the source device

   Once confirmed that all accounts are active on the new device, factory reset the old device or manually delete the authenticator app and its local data. Do not discard the old hardware until you are certain all critical accounts have been successfully moved.

   Note: Keep your emergency recovery codes for your accounts stored in a secure physical location.