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I've heard that you can configure your Google account to use its (more secure) authenticator app rather than sending you a text message - in my most recent case, this was when Google sent me a text message to "make sure it was really me" when I signed in from an unknown device.
However I can't seem to find any setting that allows me to switch Google's mechanism of 2FA to the authenticator app for this scenario. Is it possible or will they always use the text message method?
Yes, you can do what you are asking. Just open the Google Security settings from here and open the "protect my account" section. From there you can add other phone numbers, configure your android device to allow new account logins and also configure the Google authenticator app.
It is possible to use the google authenticator for logging into you google account.
From a connected page, go through 'My account' > 'Signing into Google' > '2-Steps Verification' and then you should be able to chose a method of authentication including the authenticator app, google prompt on your phone, voice or text, or a security key.
