Microsoft Authenicator

Brock, Michael 0 Reputation points
2026-11-10T19:35:35.54+00:00

Unable to get the new I phone 18 to work with the Authenticator app

Microsoft Security | Microsoft Authenticator
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  1. AI answer

    2026-11-10T19:35:52.3333333+00:00

    For a new iPhone, the most common fixes are to restore or re-register Microsoft Authenticator correctly.

    1. If a backup was used on the old iPhone, verify these on the old device:
      • iCloud Drive is enabled.
      • iCloud Keychain is enabled.
      • iCloud Backup is enabled.
      • In Saved to iCloud, Authenticator is turned on.
      • Microsoft Authenticator is version 6.8.33 or later.
      • The app was opened at least once before switching phones.
    2. On the new iPhone:
      • Uninstall and reinstall Microsoft Authenticator.
      • The backup should then appear.
    3. If Authenticator restores but the account shows "Sign in to add your account":
      • This is expected for work or school accounts.
      • Open the account in Authenticator and sign in again.
    4. If restore is not available:
      • Confirm backup was enabled on the old phone.
      • Confirm the same recovery account is being used.
      • Confirm the restore is to the same device type.
      • Authenticator backup cannot be restored from Android to iPhone or from iPhone to Android.
    5. If the app is installed but authentication still fails:
      • Make sure the app is unlocked.
      • Make sure notifications are enabled.
      • Update to the latest app version.
      • Check internet connectivity by switching between Wi‑Fi and mobile data.
      • Verify the iPhone date and time are correct.
    6. If the old phone is still available, do not remove Authenticator or factory reset the old iPhone until the new iPhone is fully working.
    7. If the old phone is no longer available:
      • Try Sign in another way or I can't use my Microsoft Authenticator app right now if another method was previously configured.
      • For a work or school account, contact the organization’s IT admin to reset MFA methods so Authenticator can be registered again on the new iPhone.
    AI-generated content may be incorrect. Read our transparency notes for more information.

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