How to Transfer Data from Android to iPhone

Switching from Android to iOS used to be a frustrating process involving confusing cables, third-party software, and lost contacts. Today, Apple provides a free, dedicated Android app that handles the entire migration wirelessly.

Before you start, ensure both your old Android phone and your new iPhone are plugged into their chargers, connected to Wi-Fi, and placed right next to each other. Here is how to transfer your data from Android to iPhone smoothly.

Step 1: Download “Move to iOS” on Your Android

Apple built an app specifically for this process, and it lives in the Google Play Store.

1. Turn on your Android phone and open the Google Play Store.
2. Search for Move to iOS (ensure the developer listed is “Apple”).
3. Tap Install and open the app.
4. Agree to the terms and conditions, and grant the app the necessary permissions to access your contacts, photos, and location.

Step 2: Start the Setup Process on the iPhone

You can only use the “Move to iOS” app while the iPhone is in its initial setup phase. If you have already set up your iPhone and are looking at the home screen, you must factory reset it to use this method.

1. Turn on your new iPhone and follow the on-screen instructions (choose your language, region, and Wi-Fi network).
2. Stop when you reach the screen titled Apps & Data.
3. Tap the option that says Move Data from Android.
4. A new screen will appear with a multi-digit numerical code.

Step 3: Enter the Code and Choose Your Data

Now, you must link the two devices together so they can create a secure, private Wi-Fi connection.

1. Look at your Android phone. It should be asking for a code. Enter the numerical code displayed on your iPhone screen.
2. Wait a few moments for the devices to connect. (Your Android might briefly warn you that it has “no internet connection”—this is normal, as it is connected directly to the iPhone, not the web).
3. On the Android screen, you will now see a list of data you can transfer. Select everything you want to keep: Contacts, Message history, Camera photos and videos, Web bookmarks, Mail accounts, and Calendars.
4. Tap Continue.

Step 4: Wait for the Transfer to Complete

This is the most crucial step: Do not touch either phone while the transfer is happening. If you switch to another app on your Android, or if you receive a phone call, the transfer will immediately fail, and you will have to start over from the beginning.

Depending on how many photos and videos you have, this process can take anywhere from ten minutes to an hour. Once the loading bar on the iPhone finishes, tap Done on your Android phone. You can now continue the setup process on your new iPhone, and all your old data will be waiting for you.