Which Android app should I use to get verification codes when setting up a new phone or recovering accounts?

Google Authenticator is a focused application designed for generating time-based, one-time passwords used in two-factor authentication (2FA). This makes it particularly valuable during the critical scenario of setting up a new device or recovering account access, as the codes are generated locally on the phone without needing an active network connection. A key feature is its ability to house codes for multiple accounts in one place, from email and social media to banking and work portals, centralizing access during a recovery process. The app operates offline, so codes remain available even without cellular data or Wi-Fi, which can be essential if a user is locked out and needs to authenticate on a different device.

While praised for its reliability and straightforward interface, the app has limitations regarding backup. Account transfers require using a QR code scan from an old device, and there is no built-in cloud sync. This means losing the phone without first migrating the codes can result in being locked out of accounts, a significant consideration for recovery planning. User reviews frequently highlight its effectiveness for securing logins, though some note the manual transfer process can be a point of friction. For anyone prioritizing a simple, offline method to manage 2FA codes during device transitions, Google Authenticator provides a robust, no-frills solution, but users must be proactive about backing up their setup.