Microsoft Authenticator is a free security application created by Microsoft, primarily intended to generate security codes for two-factor authentication, thereby bolstering the security of online accounts, including sites such as eBay. The app’s functionality was previously extended to include storing passwords for various applications or websites, which could be autofilled when needed.
However, Microsoft has announced that this specific feature will be phased out, as outlined in a support article.
Key Information:
- Starting in June 2025, users will no longer have the capability to save new passwords in Microsoft Authenticator.
- By July 2025, the autofill feature will be entirely discontinued.
- Come August 2025, any passwords previously saved will be inaccessible via the Authenticator app.
In summary: Microsoft is removing the option to store passwords in Authenticator, along with the autofill capability, in the near future.
The company states that this alteration is designed to enhance the process of saving passwords and autofilling them. You may question how this will be accomplished. Microsoft asserts that all current passwords will be synchronized with the user’s Microsoft account, ensuring accessibility when utilizing Microsoft Edge.
While this may be straightforward for individuals who regularly use Microsoft Edge, it does not apply to those who do not. Microsoft recognizes this limitation and provides guidance on its support page about how to install Microsoft Edge and configure it as a service provider for password autofill on mobile devices.
For Authenticator users who prefer not to use Edge, this transition creates a complicated scenario. To retain access to saved passwords and the autofill feature, Microsoft strongly recommends switching to Edge and establishing it as an autofill provider on mobile devices.
So, is this truly simplifying the experience? With Authenticator being operational across various platforms, users already had the option to utilize the app on different devices. Although the synchronization feature was not as sophisticated as some competing applications, Microsoft could have chosen to improve Authenticator rather than pursue this route.
How to Export Passwords from Microsoft Authenticator
Users can export their saved passwords from Authenticator into a CSV file, which can be imported by numerous password managers.
Here’s the process to export your passwords:
- Launch Microsoft Authenticator.
- Navigate to Menu > Settings.
- Scroll to the Autofill section.
- Enable “Export Passwords.”
- When prompted, select the Export option.
- Input your screen lock password.
Important Note: Passwords are stored in plain text in the file. Anyone with access can easily read them, so it is highly recommended to delete the file after importing successfully. Additionally, avoid storing it in remote locations like cloud services.
These passwords can be imported into the open-source password manager Bitwarden. The app also facilitates the import of two-factor codes from other apps, though it appears that direct support for Microsoft Authenticator is not available.
It remains to be seen whether Microsoft’s initiative to enhance the password saving and autofilling process will prove effective or if users will opt for alternative applications to fulfill these needs.
We want to hear from you: What are your thoughts? Do you use an Authenticator app for generating login codes? Share your opinions in the comments section below.
