Android native mail app modern authentication

The Android native mail app's support for modern authentication!

In recent years, Google has introduced several security enhancements to the Android native mail app, including support for modern authentication protocols. Here's a breakdown of what's changed:

Before Modern Authentication

Prior to 2019, the Android native mail app used the traditional username and password authentication method, which is vulnerable to phishing attacks and password cracking.

Modern Authentication (OAuth 2.0)

In 2019, Google introduced support for modern authentication (OAuth 2.0) in the Android native mail app. This change brought several benefits:

  1. Two-factor authentication (2FA): Users can now enable 2FA, which adds an extra layer of security to their account.
  2. Token-based authentication: Instead of sending passwords over the network, the app uses an access token to authenticate with the server.
  3. Improved security: Modern authentication protocols like OAuth 2.0 are designed to be more secure and resistant to attacks.

How Modern Authentication Works in the Android Native Mail App

When you set up your email account in the Android native mail app, you'll be prompted to enable modern authentication. Here's what happens:

  1. The app requests an authorization code from the email provider's authentication server.
  2. You're redirected to the email provider's login page, where you enter your credentials.
  3. The app receives an authorization code, which is then exchanged for an access token.
  4. The app uses the access token to authenticate with the email provider's server.

Benefits for Users

The introduction of modern authentication in the Android native mail app brings several benefits for users:

  1. Improved security: Modern authentication protocols provide better protection against phishing attacks and password cracking.
  2. Simplified account setup: Users no longer need to enter their email account password in the app.
  3. Better compatibility: Modern authentication allows the app to work with more email providers that support OAuth 2.0.

Compatibility with Email Providers

Not all email providers support modern authentication, but many popular ones do, including:

If your email provider doesn't support modern authentication, you may still be able to use the traditional username and password method, but this is less secure.

In summary, the Android native mail app's support for modern authentication provides a more secure and convenient way to access your email accounts.