How do I transfer data from an old phone to a new phone?
Built-in transfer tools
Most phones include a free app for moving data. Samsung Smart Switch works between Samsung phones and from iPhone or other Android brands. Apple's Move to iOS app transfers from Android to iPhone. Google's Data Transfer Tool is built into Pixel and many other Android phones.
These tools typically transfer contacts, calendar events, photos, videos, messages, call history, and some app data. They usually connect over Wi-Fi Direct or a USB cable. The process can take 15 minutes to a few hours depending on how much data you have.
- Samsung Smart Switch: for Samsung phones and cross-platform transfers
- Move to iOS: for switching from Android to iPhone
- Google Data Transfer Tool: for Android-to-Android (Pixel and others)
- iCloud or Google One backup: restores data after signing in
Cloud backups and manual methods
If you prefer not to use a direct transfer tool, back up your old phone to iCloud (iPhone) or Google Drive (Android), then sign in on the new phone and restore. This works well if you don't have both phones at the same time.
For photos and videos, Google Photos or iCloud Photos can sync automatically. For music, documents, or specific app data, you may need to export files manually or use each app's own backup feature.
Common mistakes
- Thinking you need a computer—most transfers work phone-to-phone over Wi-Fi or a cable.
- Forgetting to transfer messaging app data (like WhatsApp) separately, which often requires its own backup and restore process.
- Assuming everything transfers—some apps (banking, streaming) require you to log in again and may not move saved passwords.
