Google Authenticator adds an important feature that's been waiting for 13 years

This tool is generally stable and highly rated. However, one of the main problems it lacks to be perfect is synchronization. With this feature, users will no longer have to worry about losing access to their online accounts. For example, if you accidentally lose your phone, just restore them on a new device.

Syncing for Google Authenticator is now available in both the Android and iOS versions of the app. To enable sync on your device, simply update the Google Authenticator app and follow the prompts.

The fact that it took Google more than a decade to implement the sync feature on Google Authenticator is a bit odd and somewhat confusing. Two-factor authentication has been around for a long time. However, many tech companies are now trying to switch to cryptography, which could make 2FA redundant. This transition will likely take several years or more, so 2FA will remain relevant for a long time to come. It's just a strange thing that the addition of synchronization is delayed for so long.

In its announcement, Google acknowledged a delay in rolling out the feature. The company says a major part of the feedback from users over the years has been on how to deal with reported lost devices. On some platforms, users can record some backup codes to access their accounts. In other cases, the person needs to contact the relevant support team to be able to log in.

Marvin Fry

Update 12 May 2023