Where to Find the Microsoft Authenticator QR Code for a New iPhone

A new iPhone asks for a QR code because Microsoft Authenticator has not yet been registered to the account on that device. The QR code must be generated from the Microsoft account or work account security page in a separate browser. Do not scan a QR code sent by an unsolicited caller, email, or text message.

Why the New iPhone Is Asking for a QR Code

Installing Authenticator transfers the app, but it does not automatically transfer every work or school account registration. A restored backup may still require re-registration, especially for passwordless sign-in or organization-managed accounts. Keep the old phone and a backup sign-in method available until the new setup works.

Generate the QR Code from Microsoft Security Info

1. On a computer, sign in to mysignins.microsoft.com/security-info for a work or school account. For a personal Microsoft account, open the account security dashboard and its advanced security options.
2. Select Add sign-in method, choose Authenticator app, and continue until the browser displays a QR code.
3. On the new iPhone, install Microsoft Authenticator from the App Store. Open it, tap +, and choose Work or school account or Personal account to match the account type.
4. Choose Scan QR code and scan the code shown in the computer browser. Allow camera and notification permissions when requested.
5. Return to the browser and continue the setup. Approve the test notification or enter the displayed number, then confirm that Authenticator appears in Security info.
6. Complete a separate sign-in test on the new phone. Only after it succeeds should you remove the old device entry.

Microsoft’s Authenticator guidance directs iPhone users to install the mobile app and then add their accounts. Never approve a prompt you did not initiate.

Recover Access When the Old Phone Is Unavailable

If you cannot sign in because the old phone is gone, select Sign in another way and use a registered phone number, security key, recovery code, or another approved method. For a work or school account with no remaining method, contact the organization’s help desk. Ask them to verify your identity and reset the MFA registration; do not ask anyone to bypass security.

Use WPS Office Without Changing Microsoft Authentication

Use Word, Excel, and PPT for FREE

Free Download

WPS Office cannot generate a Microsoft Authenticator QR code, reset MFA, or bypass a Microsoft account security requirement. It is a free, lightweight Microsoft Office-compatible suite for creating, opening, editing, and saving DOCX, XLSX, PPTX, and PDF files.

WPS Office combines Writer, Spreadsheets, Presentation, PDF tools, and AI-assisted features in a familiar, streamlined interface. It supports common Microsoft Office formats and everyday functions, which makes local document work and migration straightforward. Test macros, specialized add-ins, protected files, and Microsoft-only cloud features before changing a business-critical workflow.

Microsoft Authenticator QR Code FAQs

Where does the Microsoft Authenticator QR code come from?

The code is generated on the account’s Security info page when you add Microsoft Authenticator as a sign-in method. It is not a QR code stored inside the new iPhone.

Can I reuse the QR code from my old phone setup?

No. Start a new Authenticator registration and scan the newly displayed QR code. Setup codes are temporary and tied to a specific registration.

Should I delete Authenticator from the old phone first?

No. Keep the old phone or another sign-in method until the new iPhone completes a test approval. Removing the only working method too early can lock you out.

What if my work account does not show Add sign-in method?

Your organization may restrict security methods or require device enrollment. Contact the Microsoft 365 administrator and ask for MFA re-registration or a Temporary Access Pass if your organization uses it.