Twilio’s Authy Desktop App is Going Away: What Should You Do?
Twilio's desktop versions of two-factor authentication apps will be discontinued in one month. Mac, Windows, and Linux users will have alternative choices.
If you use Authy desktop apps, you need to change your 2FA within a month or face the consequences.
Like many others, I have been a long-time user of Twilio’s Authy Desktop app, a part of the company’s range of Authy two-factor authenticator (2FA) apps for various platforms. I started using it because it allowed me access to my authentication keys on virtually any device.
🛡️ Boosting Your Security with 2FA
Implementing multi-factor authentication (MFA) has become crucial in today’s digital landscape. It adds an extra layer of security to your online accounts, reducing the risk of password breaches and unauthorized access. If you haven’t enabled 2FA yet, now is the time to do it. Check out this article to learn how: Multi-factor authentication: How to enable 2FA and boost your security
The End of the Line for Authy Desktop
Come March 19, 2024, the desktop apps for Windows, Linux, and MacOS will reach their end of life, five months earlier than the initially planned date of August 19, 2024. Therefore, users have only a few weeks to figure out what they want to do going forward. Twilio claims this move is being made to “streamline our focus and provide more value on existing product solutions for which we see increasing demand.”
What’s Next for Authy Desktop Users?
Okay, so what should you do when Twilio’s Authy Desktop goes away? Let’s dive into the options available depending on your operating system.
Mac Users: Keep Calm and Carry on with Authy’s iOS App
For Mac users running hardware powered by M1, M2, or M3 processors, there’s good news! You can download and install the iOS version of the Authy app, sync all your existing accounts, and carry on with life as before. 🍏
Windows, Linux, and Older Mac Users: Time to Make a Switch
If you’re running Authy Desktop on Windows, Linux, or an older Intel-based Mac, unfortunately, your easiest option is to switch to using Authy’s iOS or Android app on your mobile device. The upside of this is that you can make the switch without too much hassle. However, the downside is that you lose direct access to your 2FA codes on your computer.
Options for Accessing 2FA Codes on Your Desktop
If you still want access to your 2FA codes on your desktop, Twilio suggests looking at the following options:
- Authenticator.cc: A simple, no-frills desktop authenticator app.
- Steptwo.app: An authentication app with a clean interface and cross-platform support.
- Secrets.app: A beautifully designed app with advanced features and synchronization capabilities.
- KeepassXC: A powerful open-source password manager that also supports 2FA.
- 1Password: A popular password manager that offers integrated 2FA functionality.
Remember, if you decide to switch to another 2FA desktop app, you’ll have to go through the headache of disabling and re-enabling 2FA for all your protected accounts. Unfortunately, Authy does not provide a mechanism to export accounts to another app.
No Chrome Extension – It’s a Thing of the Past
And if you were hoping to find a Google Chrome extension for Authy, I’m sorry to say that ship has sailed. It’s been gone for years. 🚢
💡 Expert Insights: The Future of 2FA
The retirement of Twilio’s Authy Desktop app raises questions about the future of 2FA and the direction the industry is moving towards. Companies are constantly seeking ways to enhance security, convenience, and user experience. This transition presents an opportunity for developers and innovators to create new solutions in the 2FA space.
In the coming years, we can expect to see more seamless integration of 2FA into devices and operating systems. As technology evolves, biometric authentication, such as fingerprint and facial recognition, may become more prevalent. Additionally, advancements in hardware security keys and decentralized identity solutions could reshape the way we authenticate ourselves in the digital world.
🌐 Further Reading
For more information and resources on 2FA, security keys, and other related topics, check out these helpful links:
- The best security keys: Expert tested
- German start-up Instagrid raises $95m
- How to Find Passwords on Mac
- iPhone Charging Slowly? Here’s How to Fix It
- iOS 17.3: You Need to Download the Latest iPhone Update
- Apple’s App Store Permits Streaming Game Stores
- X Briefly Brought Back Headlines Link Previews
- One-Time Passwords – 1Password Support
📢 Share Your Thoughts
What are your thoughts on Twilio’s decision to retire Authy Desktop? How do you feel about the future of 2FA? Share your experiences and opinions in the comments below. And don’t forget to spread the word by sharing this article on social media! 📱💻
Let’s stay secure and keep evolving with technology!
