Microsoft Authenticator Isn’t Disappearing—but Its Passwords Are
Don’t panic! If you’ve heard that Microsoft Authenticator is going away, take a deep breath. It’s not. But something inside the app is changing — *its password manager is saying goodbye.*
Let’s break it down.
Microsoft Authenticator is that useful app a lot of us use for two-step logins. You know, when a website asks for a code after your password? That’s it. It helps keep your accounts safe. Simple and secure.
But some of you might also be using it to store your passwords. Bad news: that bit is going away starting in July 2024.
Wait. So, what IS disappearing?
The password manager feature inside the Microsoft Authenticator app. That’s the part that’s going away. The main app itself, the part that gives you login codes, is staying and working just fine.
In short:
- Microsoft Authenticator app — still here!
- Password manager inside the app — going away soon.
Why is Microsoft removing passwords?
Great question. Microsoft says they want to focus more on passwordless security. That means using things like:
- Face recognition
- Fingerprint scanning
- Security keys
- Authenticator codes
They think passwords are outdated and not secure enough. And let’s be honest, they might be right. People still use passwords like “123456” — not great for security!
What should you do if you use AutoFill?
AutoFill is the feature in Authenticator that stores your passwords and fills them in on websites or apps. Starting July 2024, it’ll stop working.
You’ll still be able to see your saved passwords on your device or in your Microsoft account through Edge browser — but AutoFill won’t work anymore.
So what should you do? Here are your options:
1. Export your passwords
Go into your Microsoft account or use the Edge browser to see all your saved passwords. Microsoft has tools to export them. Do this before July!
2. Use a different password manager
There are many great ones out there:
- 1Password
- Bitwarden
- Dashlane
- LastPass
Many of these have options to import your saved info from Microsoft.
Still using the Authenticator app?
Keep using it! It still offers:
- Two-factor codes
- Push notifications for quick approval
- Account recovery options if you lose your phone
Nothing is changing with these. No need to uninstall or switch apps.
Why this isn’t such bad news
At first, this news may sound scary. No one likes change — especially when it comes to passwords. But keep in mind:
- This doesn’t affect your Authenticator codes
- You won’t lose any data today
- You have time to move your passwords safely
- Microsoft is pushing toward *newer, better technology*
That’s not a doomsday message. It’s more of a “clean up your toolbox and get some new gear” kind of moment.
Wrap-up
To keep it simple:
- Microsoft Authenticator is not going away.
- The in-app password manager is.
- You need to export your passwords or switch to a new manager by July 2024.
With a little prep, you’ll be just fine. Your login codes will keep rolling in, and your accounts will stay safe.
Passwords may be disappearing, but your security doesn’t have to.
