A New Direction for Microsoft Authenticator
Microsoft has issued urgent advice for users of its widely utilized Authenticator app: shift your saved passwords to the Edge browser. With the announcement that Microsoft will phase out the Authenticator app’s password management capabilities imminently, this change signifies a strategic shift toward Edge, Microsoft’s AI-powered web browser. As stated in Times of India, this will begin impacting users starting next month.
Why the Change?
In a detailed blog post, Microsoft clarifies the transition, highlighting that while the current password management feature in the Authenticator app is being discontinued, the support for passkeys remains intact. What does that mean for users? Essentially, you’ll need to move your saved credentials to Edge to continue enjoying seamless password autofill, heightened by additional browser security features like Microsoft Defender SmartScreen.
The Timeframe: A Countdown Begins
Microsoft has set out a timeline for these changes. Starting June 2025, saving new passwords in the app will be disabled. Come July, autofill via Authenticator will cease, and by August 2025, accessing saved passwords through the app will no longer be possible. This prompts user action to prevent loss of credentials and ensures continuity in user experience.
Transitioning to Microsoft Edge
Ensuring a smooth transition involves integrating Edge as the default password manager on your devices. For iPhone and Android users alike, this entails downloading the Edge app and configuring it in device settings as the primary autofill provider. This setup promises a secure, synchronized experience with your Microsoft account, keeping passwords and addresses readily available.
Protecting Your Payment Information
Another significant aspect of this transition is understanding what doesn’t carry over. The saved payment information in Authenticator will not be transferred automatically to Edge. Users will need to manually re-enter their payment details to utilize Microsoft’s ecosystem for storing such sensitive data, an essential step given the forthcoming deletion of this information post-July 2025.
A Word of Caution
For users who set up passkeys within Authenticator, remain vigilant to keep the app enabled as the designated Passkey Provider. Disabling it renders passkeys inaccessible, potentially locking the user out of certain accounts. Device settings on both Android and iPhone will require careful adjustment.
As Microsoft pivots its password strategy, this change underscores the importance of proactive user engagement. Following the outlined steps ensures a seamless transition to Edge’s enhanced functionalities, continuing to deliver secure and user-friendly online experiences.
