Buzz
Google Authenticator is a reliable tool for creating one-time passcodes to enhance two-factor authentication. However, for those fully immersed in Apple's ecosystem, iCloud Keychain proves to be a more advantageous option. This is especially true now, as Apple has streamlined the process of transferring OTPs from Google Authenticator to iCloud.
Who Should Consider Shifting One-Time Passwords to iCloud Keychain
Important Note: Migrating your OTPs to iCloud Keychain is only advisable if you exclusively use Apple devices. If you rely on an Android phone or a Windows PC for accessing certain login information, it’s best to stick with Google Authenticator or other password managers capable of generating login codes.
For Apple-exclusive users, consolidating all login codes within iCloud Keychain offers unmatched convenience. This integration ensures a smooth login experience, allowing you to effortlessly copy, paste, or AutoFill one-time passwords across any Apple device. While Google Authenticator remains a solid choice, it requires frequent access to your iPhone to retrieve codes, which can be cumbersome, especially when logging in via a Mac. This inconvenience becomes more apparent if you’re accustomed to the seamless AutoFill functionality of iCloud Keychain.
iCloud Keychain also excels in effortless migration. When upgrading to a new iPhone or Mac, your one-time passwords automatically sync without any manual intervention. While Google Authenticator offers account syncing, it necessitates logging into the app separately on a new iPhone and is restricted to mobile devices. In contrast, iCloud Keychain ensures your one-time passwords are accessible on both your iPhone and Mac, provided you’re logged into your Apple ID during setup.
Steps to Transfer Google Authenticator Codes to iCloud Keychain
Before importing Google Authenticator codes to your iPhone, ensure the following prerequisites are met:
Navigate to Settings > Passwords > Password Options. Under Set up verification codes using:, choose iCloud Passwords & Keychain.
Launch Google Authenticator on your iPhone and review the stored one-time passwords. Verify that all associated login entries exist in iCloud Keychain by accessing Settings > Passwords on your iPhone. Add any missing entries before proceeding with the import.
After completing the prerequisites, launch Google Authenticator on your iPhone. Tap the three lines icon in the top-left corner and choose Transfer accounts. The app will display a QR code, which you can capture via a screenshot. Open the Photos app, locate the screenshot, and long-press the QR code. Then, select Add Verification Codes in Passwords.
This will redirect you to Apple’s password manager, where all the authentication codes from Google Authenticator will appear. Click Add to Password... under each code, link it to the corresponding login entry, and the two will sync. Although this process requires manual effort for each entry, it’s a one-time task.
Once completed, these login codes will sync across all your Apple devices. During your next two-factor authentication login, the AutoFill option for the code should appear automatically. In rare cases, you might need to access iCloud Keychain directly on the device you’re using to retrieve the code.
