How to Backup / Export Google Authenticator from iOS to Android Using Aegis

If you’re trying to move your Google Authenticator codes from an iPhone to an Android phone in 2024 or later, you might have noticed that the usual transfer method doesn’t work as expected anymore.

However, there’s a workaround: Aegis Authenticator. Unlike Google Authenticator, Aegis allows you to scan the export QR code directly and store your 2FA accounts securely. Plus, it comes with encrypted backups, biometric protection, and open-source transparency, making it a better option in many ways.

In this guide, I’ll show you how to use Aegis Authenticator to back up your iOS Google Authenticator codes on Android—without removing them from your iPhone. This method ensures that you have a secure backup without risking account access issues.

Why Google Authenticator’s Transfer Feature No Longer Works Well

Previously, Google Authenticator allowed users to transfer their 2FA accounts seamlessly between devices using a QR code. However, in recent versions (2024/2025 and newer), users have reported issues transferring from iOS to Android. The process either fails or forces you to remove the accounts from your iPhone, which is risky if something goes wrong.

By using Aegis Authenticator on Android, you can bypass these limitations and keep a backup of your 2FA codes without removing them from your iPhone.

Step-by-Step Guide: Backup iOS Google Authenticator to Aegis on Android

Step 1: Install Aegis Authenticator on Your Android Device

1. Download Aegis Authenticator from the Google Play Store.
2. Open the app and complete the initial setup.
3. Set a strong PIN or biometric protection to secure your vault. Make sure to remember this + your password. As you can’t recover this if lost.

Step 2: Export Your 2FA Accounts from Google Authenticator (iPhone)

1. Open Google Authenticator on your iPhone.
2. Tap on the three-dot menu (top-right corner).
3. Select Transfer accounts → Export accounts.
4. Choose the accounts you want to transfer.
5. A QR code will appear on your screen.

Important: Do NOT select “Remove accounts from this device” when prompted. This keeps your 2FA codes on your iPhone while adding them to Aegis as a backup. If you only want one device to have your codes, it’s okay to remove the accounts from the prior app of course.

Step 3: Import the QR Code into Aegis on Android

1. Open Aegis Authenticator on your Android phone.
2. Tap the + button and select Scan QR Code.
3. Scan the QR code displayed on your iPhone.
4. Aegis will automatically import all selected accounts.

Why Use Aegis Instead of Google Authenticator on Android?

• Encrypted Backups – Aegis lets you back up your 2FA vault securely and restore it if needed.
• Biometric & PIN Protection – Google Authenticator lacks this security feature.
• Open-Source & Private – Unlike Google Authenticator, Aegis is open-source and more transparent.
• Doesn’t Force Account Removal – Google’s transfer feature often removes accounts from your old device.

Final Thoughts: The Best Way to Backup 2FA Codes

With Google Authenticator’s recent changes, transferring 2FA codes from iOS to Android is no longer seamless. By using Aegis Authenticator, you can safely create a backup of your authentication codes without risking your original accounts.

This method ensures that:

• You keep your 2FA codes on your iPhone for safety.
• You have an encrypted backup on your Android device with Aegis.
• You avoid Google’s forced account removal, giving you more control.

If you’re serious about security, Aegis is a much better option than Google Authenticator. Plus, with encrypted backups and biometric protection, you’re keeping your 2FA codes safer than ever.

Have you tried this method? Let me know in the comments if it worked for you!

Last Updated on 1 April 2025