AppBITS: Proton Authenticator Takes on 2FA Apps

I just duplicated my 50 (fifty!) 2FA codes from OTP Auth to Apple Passwords app using QR code scanning. Really easy. Hoping to see some benefits in the near feature.

This means they’re in multiple apps and I can choose how to best fill the code depending on the situation or use case.

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The experience filling 2FA codes on macOS is hugely improved using Passwords app. No need for third party apps, menu bar items, widgets, or browser extensions.

On iOS it’s improved, but relies on use of the standard keyboard as that presents the code. :smiling_face_with_sunglasses:Using third party keyboard like SwiftKey or Gboard or Yandex doesn’t present the code AFAIK. But it’s easy to switch to the system keyboard when you want to see the code.

So, my recommendation is now… use Passwords app. As mentioned you can use multiple places to store your 2FA and choose which too fill from, my hunch is that—like me—you will gravitate towards the reduced friction experience of Apple Passwords.

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Sorry to sound like a numpty, but can you explain the process for this? There are six logins I have which require Google Authenticator and I’ve love to rid myself of them.

Of course! @trilo

I’m using OTP Auth, exact steps (or even whether it’s possible to export or share secrets) will vary based on what 2FA you’re using. Some lock you in!

For obvious reason I can’t show video or screenshots.

I used two devices to make it easier by using QR codes to automate data entry. You could also copy and paste secrets between devices, etc.

Device 1

  1. Open OTP Auth app
  2. Tap and hold on a row
  3. Choose “Edit”
  4. Choose “Show QR code”

Device 2

  1. Open Passwords app
  2. Choose “Codes”
  3. Choose “+”
  4. Choose “Scan QR Code with Camera”
    • (make sure to move the camera away from the qr code to stop scanning, this is somewhat non-obvious)
  5. Search for and select the account to attach the 2FA to

(Repeat)

First one took me about a minute, but once you know the process each one takes about 20 seconds.

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Many thanks @gingerbeardman I will definitely give this a try when I get a chance.