Say goodbye to Microsoft Authenticator app on Apple Watch
You’ll have to use a smartphone or other device to continue using Microsoft Authenticator.
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What you need to know
If you use anApple Watch, you’ll have to find a new way to use Microsoft Authenticator. Following an upcoming release in January 2023, there will no longer be a companion app for watchOS. The change is due to the fact that watchOS will no longer be compatible with Authenticator security features.
Starting in January 2023, people won’t be able to install the Authenticator app on Apple Watch. Additionally, the app will stop working on Apple Watches, so it’s not worth keeping installed.
Microsoft explained the move in anupdated support page.
“In the upcoming Authenticator release in January 2023 for iOS, there will be no companion app for watchOS due to it being incompatible with Authenticator security features. This means you won’t be able to install or use Authenticator on Apple Watch. We therefore recommend that youdelete Authenticator from your Apple Watch. This change only impacts Apple Watch, so you will still be able to use Authenticator on your other devices.”
While Microsoft Authenticator won’t work on Apple Watch as of January 2023, it will continue to be available on smartphones and other devices, including Android phones and iPhones.
If you’d like to get ahead of the curve and remove the Microsoft Authenticator app now from your Apple Watch, you can follow these stepsoutlined by Apple:
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Sean Endicott is a tech journalist at Windows Central, specializing in Windows, Microsoft software, AI, and PCs. He’s covered major launches, from Windows 10 and 11 to the rise of AI tools like ChatGPT. Sean’s journey began with the Lumia 740, leading to strong ties with app developers. Outside writing, he coaches American football, utilizing Microsoft services to manage his team. He studied broadcast journalism at Nottingham Trent University and is active on X @SeanEndicott_ and Threads @sean_endicott_.
