Before you restore
Keep the old device working and preserve any entries added since the backup. Restoring an older backup can replace the current code list; do not assume that it will merge every entry. Keep the recovery codes supplied by your services.
Create and check a backup
- Open Authenticator → Settings → Sync & Backup.
- Turn on the synchronization control. If a plan screen appears, review the offer; automatic cloud backup requires Premium in this Android version.
- Complete Google sign-in with the account you want to use for backups and allow the requested Drive access.
- Wait for synchronization to finish. Check the last-backup date and the listed code count. An enabled switch alone is not confirmation that the upload succeeded.
These steps describe the Google Play version. A Huawei build uses its own cloud provider; an Apple iCloud backup cannot be restored through Google Drive.
Restore on the replacement device
- Install the app and open Settings → Sync & Backup.
- Use the same cloud account that holds the backup. Complete sign-in and wait for the available backup list to load.
- Select a dated backup or the last-backup entry. Compare its date and contents with the accounts you expect.
- Read the Restore data confirmation. Continue only after preserving any current entries you need.
- Wait for completion, then check the account list and test important sign-ins before retiring the old phone.
When the backup does not appear
Check the cloud account, internet connection and cloud-access permission. Return to Sync & Backup and let synchronization finish. An empty list does not prove that a backup exists. Do not clear app storage, reinstall the old app or create an empty replacement backup while investigating.
Moving to a different platform
Use a supported code export instead of an Android cloud backup when moving to iPhone or Mac. Verify the imported entries before deleting the old ones.