Microsoft to end support for Authenticator app on Apple Watch, here’s why

Multiple third-party apps have left Apple’s watchOS App Store in recent years and it seems like more of them are planning to end their support for the company’s wearables. Microsoft has recently announced that its two-step verification app “Microsoft Authenticator” will soon stop working with the Apple Watch. The Redmond giant has updated its support webpage (spotted by 9to5Mac) to reveal that an upcoming update for the iOS version of the Microsoft Authenticator app will remove the companion app from watchOS. As per the support page, the new update will be rolled out in January 2023. This update will stop Apple Watch users from accessing the Microsoft app from their devices.
What is the Microsoft Authenticator
Microsoft’s Authenticator service allows users to easily sign in to their Microsoft account or supported apps with two-step verification enabled. This app can also generate single-use codes which will save users from waiting for text messages or calls to access their accounts.
The Microsoft Authenticator app was introduced for watchOS in 2018. Currently, this app is available on the App Store for free. However, users will need their Apple Watch to run iOS 14 or later to access the app.

Why Microsoft is ending its support
Microsoft has explained its decision to end support for the watchOS app. The company has claimed that the operating system running the Apple Watch isn’t compatible with the security features of the Authenticator service.
The company has also advised Apple Watch users who currently have the Authenticator app installed on their devices to delete the app as it will automatically stop working from next month.
However, it is important to note that this change will only affect the watchOS version of the app. So, users who access the Microsoft Authenticator on other Apple devices like — iPhones and iPads will still be able to enter the app after January.