How to set up google authenticator on new phone

Updated: November 11, 2025, 03:48 PM IST

How to set up google authenticator on new phone: Switching to a new phone is exciting, but it comes with a few chores—like moving your two-factor authentication (2FA) apps. If you rely on Google Authenticator for secure logins to Gmail, banking apps, or crypto exchanges, transferring it safely is crucial. Don’t worry; I’ve got you covered with this simple, guide on how to set up Google Authenticator on a new phone without losing access to your accounts.

Whether you’re upgrading from an old Android to a shiny iPhone or just replacing a cracked screen, this post walks you through every step. Let’s make the process smooth and stress-free.

Why Transfer Google Authenticator to Your New Phone?

Before diving into the “how,” let’s talk about the “why.” Google Authenticator generates time-based one-time passwords (TOTP) that add an extra layer of security to your accounts. Losing access to these codes during a phone switch can lock you out—permanently in some cases.

Thankfully, Google now supports cloud backups and account transfers, making the process easier than ever. By following this guide, you’ll avoid frantic password resets and keep your digital life secure. Plus, with over 100 million downloads on Google Play, millions trust this app daily—so let’s ensure you’re one of the smart ones who transfers it correctly.

Step 1: Prepare Your Old Phone (Before You Wipe It!)

Never factory reset your old phone until you’ve transferred Google Authenticator. Here’s what to do:

Open Google Authenticator on your old device.
Tap the three-dot menu (Android) or gear icon (iPhone).
Select “Transfer accounts” > “Export accounts.”
Authenticate with your phone’s PIN or biometrics.
Choose the accounts you want to move (or select all).
A QR code will appear—sometimes split across multiple screens.

Pro tip: Take clear screenshots of each QR code or keep the old phone powered on. You’ll need these in the next step.

If your old phone is broken or lost, don’t panic yet—we’ll cover recovery options later.

Step 2: Install and Set Up on Your New Phone

Now, grab your new phone and follow these steps:

Download Google Authenticator from the App Store (iPhone) or Google Play Store (Android).
Open the app and tap “Get started.”
Choose “Import existing accounts” (if visible) or “Scan a QR code.”
Use your old phone’s exported QR codes to scan:

On your old phone, go back to the export screen.
On your new phone, scan each QR code one by one.

Once scanned, your accounts will appear with live 6-digit codes syncing in real-time.

Cross-platform bonus: This works seamlessly between Android and iOS. No more “I switched ecosystems” excuses!

If you enabled cloud sync (available since 2020), simply sign into the same Google account on the new phone, and your codes may auto-restore. Check under Settings > Google > Backup to confirm.

Step 3: Verify and Secure Your Setup

You’re almost done! Now, double-check everything:

Test a login using a code from your new phone (e.g., log into Gmail).
Delete the accounts from your old phone to prevent duplicate codes:
Open Authenticator > Three-dot menu > Transfer accounts > Export again (to confirm) > Then remove accounts.
Enable cloud backups on your new phone:
Go to Authenticator settings > Turn on “Back up to Google Account.”

This ensures future phone switches are a breeze. Also, write down your account recovery codes (provided during 2FA setup) and store them in a secure password manager like Bitwarden or 1Password.

Common Issues and Fixes

QR code won’t scan? Increase screen brightness on the old phone and ensure good lighting.
No export option? Update Google Authenticator to the latest version.
Lost old phone? Use the backup codes you saved when enabling 2FA. Contact the service (e.g., Binance, Microsoft) for account recovery if needed.

Conclusion: Stay Secure with Zero Hassle

Setting up Google Authenticator on a new phone takes less than 5 minutes if you follow these steps. By exporting QR codes, scanning them securely, and enabling cloud backups, you’ll never be locked out again. Treat 2FA like your digital seatbelt—annoying until you need it.

Stay proactive: Update your recovery codes and test your setup after every phone switch. Your future self will thank you.

FAQs: Google Authenticator Transfer

1. Can I transfer Google Authenticator without the old phone?
Yes, but only if you saved backup codes when enabling 2FA. Otherwise, you’ll need to disable 2FA via account recovery (email, SMS, or support).

2. Is Google Authenticator backup automatic?
Only if you enable cloud backup in the app settings. It syncs to your Google account and restores on new devices.

3. Does Google Authenticator work on iPhone and Android?
Absolutely. The transfer process is identical across platforms.

4. What if I see duplicate codes after transfer?
Delete the accounts from your old phone immediately after scanning the QR codes on the new one.