Microsoft Authenticator: Improved backup and restore experience for Android

[What and why]

We’re improving the backup and restore experience in Microsoft Authenticator for Android. When setting up Authenticator on a new device, users will receive guidance tailored to whether they still have access to their previous device. They will also receive guidance on using Authenticator passkeys for cross-device sign-in. This experience is already available on iOS.

To use backup and restore on a new Android device, users must enable Google One backup and screen lock.

[Rollout schedule]

• General Availability (Worldwide, GCC, GCC High, and DoD): Beginning in mid-January 2027 and expected to complete in mid-January 2027

[Impact on your organization]

Who is affected

• Users of Microsoft Authenticator on Android

Platforms and services

• Microsoft Authenticator for Android

What will happen

• When setting up Authenticator on a new Android device, users will see clearer guidance based on whether they still have access to their previous device.
• Users will receive guidance for using Authenticator passkeys for cross-device sign-in.
• Work or school accounts are not backed up. This is not changing.
• Backup will continue to support TOTP credentials for Microsoft personal accounts and third-party accounts.
• Users must enable Google One backup and screen lock to use this backup and restore experience.
• Backup and restore is supported only when Microsoft Authenticator is installed in the Android personal profile. It is not supported when Authenticator is installed in an Android work profile.

[Action required and recommendations]

No admin action is required.

Organizations may choose to inform users about the updated restore experience on Android devices.

[Compliance considerations]

No compliance considerations identified. Review as appropriate for your organization.