Microsoft Authenticator to Drop Password Autofill as it Shifts Toward a Passwordless Future
Microsoft urges users to export their data as it phases out password autofill in Authenticator.
Key Takeaways:
- Microsoft is phasing out the password autofill feature in its Authenticator app starting next month.
- Users are encouraged to switch to Microsoft Edge or use passkeys for enhanced security.
- Saved passwords and payment info will be permanently deleted from the app.
Microsoft is getting ready to retire the password autofill feature in its Authenticator app. According to a recent support document, users will no longer be able to autofill passwords in the app starting July 1.
Microsoft says this move is part of a broader shift toward passwordless sign-ins and deeper integration with Microsoft Edge. Starting this month, Authenticator users won’t be able to save new passwords. In July, the app will lose its autofill and stored payment features, and by August, all saved passwords will be permanently deleted.
Why is Microsoft moving toward passwordless sign-ins?
Microsoft encourages users to switch to its Edge browser, which includes a built-in password manager. The company also urges customers to adopt passkeys for enhanced security against phishing attacks. This security feature uses biometrics (like fingerprint or face recognition) or a device PIN to authenticate users.
“Your saved passwords (but not your generated password history) and addresses are securely synced to your Microsoft account, and you can continue to access them and enjoy seamless autofill functionality with Microsoft Edge, a secure and user-friendly AI-powered web browser that offers features such as Microsoft Defender SmartScreen, Password Monitor, and InPrivate search,” Microsoft explained.
Microsoft has also introduced native passkey support to its Authenticator app on both Android and iOS devices. This new feature allows users to create and manage passkeys directly in Microsoft Authenticator.
How to export saved passwords and data?
Microsoft recommends that users export their saved login credentials from the Authenticator app before August. These passwords can be easily imported into Microsoft Edge for continued use. The company has also shared guidance for those who prefer to switch to a third-party password manager.
Users can export their passwords and import them into the password manager of their choice. Addresses can be copied manually or exported using Microsoft Edge. However, for security reasons, payment information cannot be exported, and users will need to manually re-enter their card details into the new password manager.
Rabia has a master's degree in Software Engineering and she has years of experience writing professionally about Microsoft products and other technologies. Rabia has also written for OnMSFT.com as well as Windows Report. She is always up to date on t...
