How to transfer data to a new phone without a fuss

Moving your data from an old phone to a new one doesn't have to be difficult. Whether you're transferring from an iPhone to an iPhone, an Android to an Android, or switching between the two, both Apple and Google offer tools to help you get the job done.

If you've recently upgraded your iPhone, Apple's Quick Start feature lets you transfer your data wirelessly or with a cable. On Android, some of your data can be restored by signing in with your Google account on your new smartphone.

Below, we explain how to retire your old phone without leaving treasured contacts, pictures, videos and other important data behind.

Transfer from: iPhone to iPhone | Android to Android | iPhone to Android | Android to iPhone

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Transferring data from iPhone to iPhone

To transfer data from your old iPhone to your new one, you can use Apple's Quick Start feature.

You can transfer your data wirelessly or, on supported devices, using a cable for a potentially faster transfer. Quick Start works if your old device is an iPhone or iPad running iOS 11, iPadOS 13, or later. The process uses both devices simultaneously, so it's best to start the transfer when you won't need your current phone for several minutes.

To transfer your data, do this:

1. Make sure your current device is connected to wi-fi and that Bluetooth is turned on. Turn on your new iPhone.
2. Place the phones next to each other and follow the on-screen instructions to get started. If the prompt to set up your new device disappears from your current one, restart both phones.
3. Set up Face ID or Touch ID.
4. Next, you'll choose how to transfer your data. If you choose Download from iCloud, your apps and data will be downloaded in the background so you can start using your new iPhone. If you choose Transfer Directly from iPhone, you'll need to wait for the transfer to finish on both devices before you can use them. This option transfers your data directly from your old iPhone to your new one.

Keep both devices near each other and plugged into power while the transfer completes. The time it takes will depend on how much data you're moving and the speed of your connection.

Get a great phone to suit your budget with our expert guide to the best smartphones.

Transferring data from Android to Android

If you're switching from one Android device to another, you can transfer apps, contacts, photos, videos, music and other audio, text messages, your wallpaper and more. The exact data that transfers may vary depending on your phone manufacturer and Android version.

To transfer your data, do this:

1. Turn on your new Android phone. It will display instructions explaining how to connect your old device. Make sure your old phone is nearby, unlocked and connected to wi-fi.
2. Follow the on-screen instructions to activate your Sim or eSim, add your Google Account and set up your fingerprint or face unlock if you want to. (Bear in mind that some Android phones' facial recognition can be fooled with a photo.)
3. When you reach the Choose what to copy screen, select the content you'd like to move to your new phone - such as apps, contacts, photos, videos, messages and other data.
4. Review your selections, then tap Copy or Next (depending on your device) to begin the transfer. You can continue setting up your new phone while your data copies in the background.

Keep both phones close together until the transfer is complete. Larger photo and video libraries can take an hour or more to copy.

Transferring data from iPhone to Android

To transfer your data, do this:

1. Make sure both phones are turned on and are charged to at least 80%. On your iPhone, go to Settings > FaceTime and turn off FaceTime. Then go to Settings > Messages and turn off iMessage so you don't miss calls or messages after switching.
2. Turn on your new Android phone and follow the on-screen instructions to activate your Sim or eSim, add your Google Account and set up biometrics.
3. When prompted, connect your iPhone to your new Android using a compatible cable (depending on your iPhone model, either Lightning to USB-C, or USB-C to USB-C). Google recommends using a wired connection because it supports the widest range of data types. If you don't have a cable, you can transfer wirelessly using the Android Switch app.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions to choose what you want to copy, such as contacts, photos, messages and other data. When you've made your selections, tap Copy to begin the transfer.

Keep both devices connected and turned on until the transfer is complete. You can continue setting up and using your new Android phone while your data copies across in the background. It can take up to two days for your messages to appear in your new Android phone, so bear this in mind.

Find out how to securely dispose of your old device with our guide on how to recycle your mobile phone.

Transferring data from Android to iPhone

To transfer your data, do this:

1. Turn on wi-fi on your Android device and download the Move to iOS app. (If you have a supported phone that runs a compatible version of Android 17, you may be able to transfer your data without downloading the app.)
2. Plug both phones into power. If you have a compatible USB-C cable, you can connect your Android phone directly to your iPhone for a faster transfer.
3. Turn on your new iPhone and place it next to your Android phone. Follow the on-screen setup instructions, then on the Quick Start screen tap Set Up Without Another [Apple] Device. When you reach the Transfer Your Apps & Data screen, select From Android.
4. On your Android phone, open the Move to iOS app and follow the on-screen instructions. 
5. A unique code will appear on your iPhone. Enter it on your Android device, then join the temporary wi-fi network created by your iPhone when prompted. (Not received the code? Follow this instructions on this Apple support page.)
6. Choose the content you want to transfer, such as contacts, messages, photos, videos, calendars and call history, then tap Continue. Keep both devices close together and plugged into power until the transfer finishes.

During setup, you may also be able to transfer your phone number and Sim or eSim to your new iPhone, although this depends on your network and device compatibility.

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