Search giant Google on Monday unveiled a major update to its 12-year-old Authenticator app for Android and iOS with an account synchronization option that allows users to back up their time-based one-time passwords (TOTPs) to the cloud.
“This change means users are better protected from lockout and that services can rely on users retaining access, increasing both convenience and security,” Google’s Christiaan Brand said.
The update, which also brings a new icon to the two-factor authenticator (2FA) app, finally brings it in line with Apple’s iCloud Keychain and addresses a long-standing complaint that it’s tied to the device on which it’s installed, making it a hassle when switching between phones.
