Microsoft Authenticator: Back from password manager to authenticator

Microsoft Authenticator: Back from password manager to authenticator

  • 3 hours ago
  • heise.de
  • Keywords: Security, Authentication

Microsoft is discontinuing password management in its Authenticator app, ending autofill functionality from July 2025 and preventing new password saves from June. Existing passwords will remain usable with Edge but must be exported for other managers. Passkeys will still be supported.

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Estimated market influence

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Microsoft

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Analyst rating: Strong buy

The company is streamlining the Autofill feature in its Authenticator app, which will phase out password management capabilities starting July 2025. This move could affect users who rely on the app for password management and autofill functionality.

Other Password Managers

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Analyst rating: N/A

Users can export passwords from Microsoft Authenticator to other password managers, which provides flexibility and may benefit these alternative services as more users might adopt them.

Context

Analysis and Summary: Microsoft Authenticator Changes

Key Facts and Figures

  • Password Management Phase-Out Timeline:

    • June 2025: No new passwords can be saved in the app.
    • July 2025: Autofill feature will no longer function.
    • August 2025: All saved passwords will become inaccessible.

  • Passkey Support: Passkeys will continue to be supported, emphasizing a shift towards more secure authentication methods.

Market Implications

  • Shift to Passkeys: Microsoft's focus on passkeys aligns with global trends toward passwordless authentication, enhancing security and user convenience.
  • Impact on Password Managers: This move may reduce reliance on traditional password managers, potentially affecting competitors in the market.
  • User Inconvenience: Users dependent on Authenticator for password management may face challenges, necessitating a switch to alternative tools or manual data export.

Competitive Dynamics

  • Leadership in Authentication: Microsoft's transition highlights its leadership in promoting advanced authentication methods, possibly influencing other companies to follow suit.
  • Opportunities for Competitors: The phase-out could create opportunities for competitors offering robust password management solutions and seamless integration with other browsers.

Long-Term Effects and Regulatory Impact

  • Password Decline: The changes may accelerate the decline of password reliance globally, pushing industries toward more secure alternatives.
  • Regulatory Focus: Increased adoption of passkeys might prompt regulators to enforce stricter authentication standards, enhancing overall cybersecurity measures.

This analysis underscores Microsoft's strategic pivot towards enhanced security through passkey adoption, with significant implications for both the market and user behavior.