Microsoft Authenticator app for Apple Watch to be discontinued in January

Microsoft has announced that Apple Watch will no longer be compatible with Azure Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) due to a security update. Ohio University community members are encouraged to delete the Microsoft Authenticator app from their Apple Watch, as it will stop working in January.

The decision to discontinue Apple Watch support was made to protect against a new form of hacking called MFA fatigue attacks. These attacks are on the rise and Microsoft recorded more than 40,000 MFA fatigue attacks in a single month. In a recent statement, Microsoft announced, "In the upcoming Authenticator release in January 2023 for iOS, there will be no companion app for watchOS due to it being incompatible with Authenticator security features. This means you won’t be able to install or use Authenticator on Apple Watch.” 

Although you will no longer be able to approve or deny login attempts from your Apple Watch, you will still be able to use other iOS devices, like your iPhone or iPad, to manage Azure Microsoft Authenticator notifications. For a more convenient authentication experience, you can also disable app lock, so you’re not prompted to enter your device’s passcode every time you authenticate.

For questions regarding this update, please visit OIT's Technology Help Center to contact the IT Service Desk, submit a ticket or to read more about Azure Multi-Factor Authentication.