Users of the Microsoft Authenticator Android app will need to prepare for a change in how data is backed up. Starting in January 2027, Microsoft is dropping the option to store app backups in the cloud via a personal Microsoft account. Moving forward, Google One will handle data backups instead.
Cloud backup switches destination
The backup feature in Microsoft Authenticator is designed to easily restore stored two-factor authentication entries and app settings when switching devices or following data loss. Until now, users simply had to enable the “Cloud Backup” option in the Android app’s settings and select a personal Microsoft account. These personal accounts can also be used, for example, to store recovery keys for BitLocker encryption on Windows PCs.
This backup method via Microsoft account will end in January 2027 for Android users. Google One will take its place: Google’s service will back up the Authenticator app’s storage areas and settings “from the outside” going forward, storing this data in the linked Google cloud storage.
Open questions regarding implementation
Exactly which steps will be required of users during the transition remains unclear. Microsoft has not yet explained in technical detail how the Authenticator app will interact with Google One going forward, or whether users will need to manually adjust their configuration before the old option is discontinued.
For Android users, there is no immediate need to take action for now, as the current method will remain functional until January 2027. However, anyone using Microsoft Authenticator to secure important accounts should keep an eye on future app updates to be prepared in good time for the switch to Google cloud storage.
Sources: Heise – News
