Can I change the default delivery method for 2-factor authentication codes from iPhone to SMS?

I own an iPhone, but I only use it for my daughter to watch Bluey during road trips. That's it. So it sits in a drawer with a depleted battery any other time. I use an android device and windows PC. However, there is exclusive content on Apple TV and Apple Podcasts that I need to log in to see/hear. Every time I log in and need to 2FA code, it defaults to my iPhone and I can't find anyway to change that, so I have to tell it to send a text message. Can I change this setting? Or is Apple just going to keep trying to make it really inconvenient to not switch?

Posted on Apr 21, 2025 3:22 PM

Reply
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Apr 21, 2025 5:55 PM

You can add your Android phone as a trusted telephone number, and can then sign out of the iPhone.



See the section: About trusted phone numbers and trusted devices


Completely depleting an iPhone battery can brick the iPhone, as well.


4 replies

Apr 22, 2025 7:26 AM in response to leighton154

As Mac Jim points out the 2FA code is sent to all the Trusted Apple devices one may have first, then if for some reason that code cannot be received, or accessed you have the option to send it to a trusted number immediately after the code is sent and you get the code entry screen.


How is it inconvenient, to simply let it send the code, and then just click or tap on the "Did not receive code" option to send the SMS, it's one extra step.


Also, when logging in to Apple TV or other services, you should set the web browser or device as trusted, so a code is no longer required and you can just sign in.

click here ➜ Use two-factor authentication for your Apple Account on iPhone - Apple Support

Apr 21, 2025 6:06 PM in response to leighton154

The first attempt is to a Trusted Device which is one that is logged into the account and would be your daughters phone and to use a Trusted Phone number you have to manually choose the option to send a Text Message. This can be an Android phone and would be the one listed as a Trusted Phone number on that Apple Account. It appears you already have your Android number set as a Trusted Phone Number and that is being used when you choose to send a Text Message. It will not automatically use the Trusted Phone number without you asking to send the text message.

This thread has been closed by the system or the community team. You may vote for any posts you find helpful, or search the Community for additional answers.

Can I change the default delivery method for 2-factor authentication codes from iPhone to SMS?

Welcome to Apple Support Community
A forum where Apple customers help each other with their products. Get started with your Apple Account.