Transfer contacts and data to a new Android device

Got a new device? Here’s how to transfer your contacts, photos, messages and everything else from your old device over to your new phone or tablet.

Before you start

Make sure:

  • both phones have enough battery charge
  • you're connected to WiFi
  • you know your Google account details
  • you've updated your phone software if an update is available
  • you've inserted your SIM into your new phone if needed

Need to know

If you would like a step-by-step walkthrough guide to transferring your data, use our Device Guide for Android phones.

How do I transfer contacts and content to or from an Android device?

To transfer your contacts and content to or from an Android device, you'll need to have set up a Google account.

How to back up content

  1. Go into Settings > Google > Backup.
  2. Make sure the 'Back up to Google Drive' option is switched on.
  3. This should automatically back up all your content such as settings, photos, messages, videos and contacts.

How to restore content

  1. Work through the set up steps for your new device and when prompted, connect to a WiFi network.
  2. Accept the terms and conditions.
  3. You'll then be asked if you have another Android device – if you do simply click the option to copy your Google accounts, apps and data from your other device and follow the steps.
  4. You can click 'No thanks' and still do a restore. This will require you to submit your Google account email address and password - it will then guide you through setting up your preferences such as automatic back up.
  5. On the 'Which device' screen, you can select your previous device back up and select restore. The restore will happen automatically and your device will prompt you to set up other personal settings while the back up is completed in the background.

Was this article helpful?

Thank you for your feedback!
Sorry about that! Why didn’t this article help you?