Authy

Name: Authy
Brand: Authy

Twilio's two-factor authentication app with secure cloud backup and multi-device sync.

softwareIdentity & SSOtwo-factor-authentication2fa-appsecurity

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Our Verdict

Best for

People who want a free, simple mobile 2FA app with encrypted cross-device backup.

Skip if

You need a desktop or browser-extension authenticator, since Authy discontinued both in 2020 and 2024.

What is Authy?

Authy is Twilio's two-factor authentication (2FA) app that generates time-based one-time codes to secure online accounts, with secure encrypted cloud backup so codes can be restored across devices. As of 2026, Authy is mobile-only: Twilio discontinued the Authy Chrome browser extension in 2020 following Google's deprecation of Chrome Apps, and it shut down the Authy desktop apps for Windows, macOS, and Linux in 2024, forcibly logging out desktop devices and directing users to the iOS and Android apps going forward. The app remains actively available on iOS and Android and supports multi-device sync so a single account's 2FA codes can be accessed from more than one phone or tablet. It's positioned as a straightforward, free consumer security tool rather than an enterprise identity platform, competing with app-based authenticators like Google Authenticator and Microsoft Authenticator.

SpecificationsAI-estimated

deploymentMobile App

open source❌ No

api available❌ No

support optionsHelp center, Twilio support

key integrationsAny service supporting standard TOTP 2FA

Key Features of Authy

Generates time-based one-time passcodes (TOTP) to secure logins for supported online accounts.

Backs up 2FA tokens with encryption to the cloud so codes survive a lost or replaced phone.

Syncs the same account across multiple mobile devices simultaneously.

No longer offers desktop or browser-extension apps as of 2026; Twilio discontinued the Chrome extension in 2020 and desktop apps in 2024.

Protects the app itself with a PIN or biometric lock on supported devices.

Remains completely free to download and use as a consumer 2FA app.

Use Cases for Authy

Personal account 2FA

Generate time-based codes to log into email, banking, and social accounts securely.

Phone replacement recovery

Restore all 2FA tokens onto a new phone using encrypted cloud backup.

Multi-device access

Access the same 2FA codes from more than one personal mobile device.

Replacing SMS-based 2FA

Use app-based codes instead of less secure SMS text message verification.

Pros & Cons of Authy

Pros

Encrypted multi-device backup solves the common 'lost phone locks me out of 2FA' problem
Completely free with no paid tier or subscription required
Long-established, widely recognized app with broad compatibility across services
Simple, consumer-friendly interface compared to enterprise identity platforms

Cons

Desktop and Chrome extension apps were discontinued, unlike some competitors that still offer desktop clients
Development pace has visibly slowed as Twilio focuses on enterprise authentication products
No API or enterprise identity management features, positioning it purely as a personal consumer tool

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Authy desktop app still available?

No, Twilio discontinued the Authy desktop apps for Windows, macOS, and Linux in 2024.

Is there an Authy Chrome extension?

No, it was discontinued in 2020 after Google deprecated the Chrome Apps platform.

Is Authy free?

Yes, Authy is free to download and use on iOS and Android.

Can I use Authy on multiple phones?

Yes, Authy supports syncing the same account across multiple mobile devices.

Pricing Overview

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Free

Detailed plans are not listed. Visit the official website for pricing information.

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