How to Easily Transfer All Your Data to a New Android Device

when the time comes to move to a new phone, you’ll probably feel an inevitable sense of trepidation. Sure, you’ll be excited to get your hands on a shiny new device, but how on earth are you going to move all your data over?

There’s so much to consider. You’ll have apps, customized settings, photos, contacts, backgrounds, downloads — it’s daunting. Even if you’re efficient, it can take a whole weekend to get yourself set up on a new handset.

But it doesn’t have to be so complicated. With a bit of planning, you can make the transfer a seamless experience. You just need to know which settings and apps to use.

Here’s how to make the process of moving your data to a new Android device as painless as possible.

1. Settings: Android Backup Service

The most important tool for ensuring an easy transfer is to use the Android Backup Service. It’ll save some of your most personalized settings to the cloud, including:

• Google Calendar settings.
• Wi-Fi networks and passwords.
• Home screen wallpapers.
• Gmail settings.
• Display settings.
• Language and input settings.
• Date and time settings.

Some third-party apps will also be backed up, but it changes on an app-by-app basis. Not all apps are compatible.

To turn on Android Backup Service, head to Settings > Backup and reset and make sure Backup my data is turned on.

If you have more than one Google Account on your device, you need to select which account you want to use for saving the backups. Make your choice under Backup account.

When you turn on your new phone for the first time, it will ask you to enter your Google Account credentials. If the phone recognizes a backup on the servers, it will ask you if you want to use it. Tap Yes.

Manufacturer-Specific Features

Samsung users have access to a proprietary app called SmartSwitch Mobile. In addition to the data Android Backup Service saves, it will also move your text messages, phone logs, contacts, and email accounts.

Sony users can try Sony Xperia Transfer, HTC offers the HTC Transfer Tool, and LG provides LG Bridge. They all perform a similar function.

Remember, because they are all proprietary features, they are only useful if you’re switching to another phone from the same manufacturer.

2. Photos: Google Photos

There are a number of apps you could use to move your photos from one device to another. OneDrive and Google Drive will both suffice, as will some manufacturer-specific apps. However, the easiest and most streamlined approach is to use Google Photos.

ot only does the Picasa replacement sync photos between all your devices (mobiles and tablets), but since mid-2015, Google has also offered a desktop uploader. It means any images on your various computers will also be accessible on your phone, thus making it the best holistic tool available.

First, make sure all your photo files are being backed up. Be careful! You might have several device folders (such as Camera, WhatsApp Images, Animated GIFs, Screenshots, etc). You need to manually turn on backup for every folder whose contents you want on your new phone.

To backup a folder, open Google Photos and go to Menu (three horizontal lines) > Settings > Backup and Sync > Back up device folders. Slide the toggle next to each folder you want to keep.

When you log onto your new phone, all the photos you backed up should instantly be viewable in the app.

Download — Google Photos (Free)