Getting a new Android phone is exciting, until you realise your contacts, photos, chats and apps are still on the old one. The good news is that Android makes moving to a new phone simple, either with a cable, over Wi-Fi or from a Google backup. This guide walks you through the whole switch, from preparing the old phone to wiping it safely afterwards.
Key takeaways
- Prepare the old phone first: update, back up and charge it.
- Copy data during setup using a cable, Wi-Fi or your Google backup.
- Samsung phones can also use Smart Switch.
- Back up WhatsApp separately, then factory reset the old phone before giving it away.
What this guide covers
- Prepare your old phone
- Choose a transfer method
- Copy data during setup
- After the transfer: checklist
- Wipe the old phone safely
- FAQs
1. Prepare your old phone
- Update the old phone’s apps and system if possible.
- Turn on Google backup and tap Back up now (see how to back up your Android phone).
- Check that Google Photos has finished backing up.
- Back up WhatsApp and other messaging apps inside each app (see WhatsApp backup).
- Charge both phones and keep them on the same Wi-Fi.
- Note your Google Account password and screen lock; you will need them.
2. Choose a transfer method
| Method | Best for | Speed |
|---|---|---|
| Cable (USB-C to USB-C) | Old phone still works; lots of photos | Fastest |
| Wi-Fi (phone to phone) | No cable available | Medium |
| Google backup (cloud) | Old phone lost, broken or already reset | Depends on internet |
| Samsung Smart Switch | Moving to a Samsung phone | Fast, cable or wireless |
3. Copy data during setup
- Turn on the new phone and connect to Wi-Fi.
- When asked to copy apps and data, choose Next or Copy.
- Connect the phones with a cable, or follow the wireless option.
- On the old phone, confirm the request and keep the screen unlocked.
- Choose what to copy: apps, contacts, messages, photos, settings.
- Sign in to your Google Account and finish setup.
If you skipped this step, many phones let you restart the copy from Settings, or you can reset the new phone and set it up again. A backup cannot be restored onto a phone with an older Android version than the old phone.
Tip: Keep both phones plugged in during a large transfer. Copying thousands of photos can take a while.
4. After the transfer: checklist
- Open WhatsApp and restore your chat backup with the same number.
- Sign in to banking and important apps again; many do not transfer logins for security.
- Set up your screen lock, fingerprint and face unlock.
- Check that Find Hub is turned on.
- Move your SIM or eSIM. Contact your network for eSIM transfer.
- Re-pair Bluetooth devices such as earbuds and smartwatches.
5. Wipe the old phone safely
Before selling or giving away the old phone, make sure everything is on the new one, then:
- Remove your Google Account in Settings > Passwords & accounts.
- Remove the SIM card and memory card.
- Go to Settings > System > Reset options > Erase all data (factory reset).
Important: a factory reset permanently erases the phone. Only do it after checking that your photos, chats and contacts are on the new phone.
FAQs
Can I transfer data from iPhone to Android?
Yes. During setup, Android offers to copy data from an iPhone, using a cable or the steps shown on screen.
Will my apps keep their data?
Most apps restore their data, but some, especially banking apps, require you to sign in again.
Do I need to remove my Google Account before resetting?
It is a good idea. It prevents the next owner from facing a lock that asks for your account.
Sources: Android Help: Back up or restore data · Android Help. Menu names can differ slightly between phone brands and Android versions.