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What you need to know
Google has initiated the rollout of version 7.0 of the Authenticator app, which features a complete redesign to align with its Material 3 design principles. This update not only improves the user interface but also introduces two significant new features: a Privacy Screen and a search function aimed at enhancing app security and user convenience. Google has been transitioning to store one-time codes within user accounts rather than on individual devices, furthering its ambition towards a “passwordless” future.
Google Authenticator, an essential tool for managing two-factor authentication codes, recently underwent a substantial redesign that is expected to be available for all users shortly.
Reports from 9to5Google indicate that the new version (v7.0) is rolling out for Android devices, upgrading the app to embody Material 3’s design. A key highlight of this update is the introduction of a “Privacy Screen” feature aimed at enhancing the security of the app by requiring users to authenticate using their lock screen details.
This feature, once activated in the app settings, will utilize either a previously set PIN or biometric methods for access. Users can configure how quickly they need to re-enter their credentials, with options to do so immediately, after 10 seconds, after one minute, or after 10 minutes.
Additionally, the app now allows Android users to search for content across their Google accounts. The account switcher has also been streamlined to incorporate the hamburger menu icon for easier navigation.
Minor updates are visible in the QR code scanning interface as well. The redesign includes privacy assurances indicating that images captured during scans are not stored, only the results of the scan are retained. Unlike Google Lens, which uses the images for various purposes, the QR scanner safeguards user privacy by ensuring no images are kept. Furthermore, users can now use a flash option located at the top right corner to assist in scanning barcodes in low-light conditions.
The overall UI of the Authenticator app has been refreshed to comply with Google’s Material design standards. Currently, the update to version 7.0 has not yet reached a majority of Android devices. Users will be able to download it from the Play Store once it becomes widely available.
Aside from the visual updates, Google has made strides in improving functionality within the Authenticator app, primarily through the introduction of a one-time code synchronization feature designed to mitigate challenges users face when their devices are misplaced or stolen. By moving the storage of two-factor authentication codes to user accounts, Google aims to enhance accessibility and security.
For those who prefer not to utilize this syncing option, it remains possible to disable it or forgo signing into a Google account altogether. These developments are part of Google’s broader strategy to promote a “passwordless” framework, which includes offering alternative authentication methods such as passkeys for greater account security.
Source
www.androidcentral.com