The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREERepair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →You can move most of your data during Android’s initial setup, but no single transfer route guarantees that every photo, message, or app item will come across. For the broadest coverage in Google’s classic transfer instructions, use a compatible cable; handle iCloud Photos separately, turn off iMessage, and check the new phone before erasing the iPhone.
Before you start
- Charge both phones and make sure you can unlock the iPhone. Keep the iPhone connected to Wi-Fi, and check that the Android phone has enough free storage.
- Decide whether to use a cable. Check that it supports data transfer and fits both phones; you may need an adapter. Wireless transfer is an option on compatible devices.
- Turn off iMessage on the iPhone before switching. Google says this is necessary to help text messages reach the new Android phone reliably.
- If a school or employer manages the iPhone, its restrictions may prevent some data from copying.
Google’s estimate for its transfer process is usually less than 30 minutes, but it can take a few hours when there is a lot of data. Keep both phones available until the copy and checks are finished. Google’s transfer instructions describe the process and preparation.
Choose a transfer method
Google documents classic cable and wireless transfers, plus an upgraded process available on certain eligible devices. The categories below are those listed in Google’s support table, not a guarantee that every item on every phone will copy. Device model, operating system, available storage, file format, and transfer method can affect the result.
| Method | What Google lists | What to consider |
|---|---|---|
| Classic cable | Contacts, photos and videos, calendars, texts and most iMessage content, WhatsApp history, music, downloaded files, notes, call history, voice memos, and certain apps and settings. | Requires a compatible data cable or adapter. WhatsApp may require an additional step after setup. |
| Classic wireless | Contacts, photos and videos, and calendars. | Does not list texts or WhatsApp history in Google’s classic-method table. The Android Switch app method requires iOS 15 or later. |
| Upgraded transfer on eligible devices | Google lists support for encrypted messages and messages stored in iCloud, subject to device eligibility and setup availability. | Availability depends on the phone and setup flow. Google names Pixel 8 devices and newer, and Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 8 and Z Fold 8, as eligible examples in its current help content. Follow the prompt on your own device. |
Google’s table also identifies items that the standard process does not copy, including paid apps and in-app purchases, Safari bookmarks, Health data, and some app data. For the current categories and limitations, see Google’s iPhone-to-Android transfer guide and its transfer-method comparison.
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- USB-C 2-in-1 storage OTG: The Lexar JumpDrive Dual Drive D40E features USB Type-A and Type-C connectors in a slim, portable form factor for easy device compatibility
- Transfer speeds up to 100MB/s: Based on internal testing, performance may vary depending upon the host device, interface, and usage conditions. 1MB=1,000,000 bytes
- Plug and Play: Widely compatible with USB Type-C smartphones, tablets, laptops, Macs, and traditional Type-A devices, no software installation required. The 360° swivel design allows for easy switching between connectors without the hassle of losing a cap
- Durable & Compact: The Lexar D40E USB memory stick features a metal enclosure, withstands temperatures from 0° to 50° C (32°F to 122°F), and is lightweight at 26g with dimensions of 70.4 x 16.9 x 11.7mm
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Copy data during Android setup
- Turn on the new Android phone and begin its initial setup.
- When asked whether to copy apps and data, choose the option for an iPhone or iPad.
- Follow the instructions shown on the Android phone. Depending on its model and software, you may see a cable route, a wireless Android Switch route, or a QR-code-based flow.
- If using a cable, connect the phones as prompted. Approve the iPhone’s Trust prompt if it appears, select the data to copy, and start the transfer.
- If using wireless Android Switch, follow the QR-code and app prompts. The app-based wireless route requires iOS 15 or later; an older iPhone may still be able to transfer by cable.
- Leave the phones connected and follow the setup screens until the process finishes. The available options and exact labels vary by manufacturer and model.
Google’s instructions say some devices offer ways to transfer after initial setup, but the options depend on the device. Starting with the new phone’s setup flow is the clearest route when you are planning a full migration. For device-specific steps and troubleshooting, consult Google’s transfer guide and its help for transfer problems.
Move photos and videos stored in iCloud
Do not assume that a normal phone-to-phone transfer includes your entire iCloud Photos library. Google says photos and videos stored in iCloud are not included in the ordinary copy process. Its separate route lets you request a transfer from iCloud Photos to Google Photos; follow the instructions in Google’s guide.
Rank #2
- USB-C 2-in-1 storage OTG: The Lexar JumpDrive Dual Drive D40E features USB Type-A and Type-C connectors in a slim, portable form factor for easy device compatibility
- Transfer speeds up to 100MB/s: Based on internal testing, performance may vary depending upon the host device, interface, and usage conditions. 1MB=1,000,000 bytes
- Plug and Play: Widely compatible with USB Type-C smartphones, tablets, laptops, Macs, and traditional Type-A devices, no software installation required. The 360° swivel design allows for easy switching between connectors without the hassle of losing a cap
- Durable & Compact: The Lexar D40E USB memory stick features a metal enclosure, withstands temperatures from 0° to 50° C (32°F to 122°F), and is lightweight at 26g with dimensions of 70.4 x 16.9 x 11.7mm
- Security & Warranty: Securely protects files using an advanced security software solution with 256-bit AES encryption. Backed by a Lexar 3-year limited warranty
Google also describes installing Google Photos on the iPhone and backing up the library there. That backup can take several days. Google recommends leaving the iPhone on with Google Photos open while it runs. Check that the expected photos and videos are visible in the destination before deleting originals or resetting the iPhone. The separate cloud transfer and backup options are explained in Google’s transfer troubleshooting guidance.
Make sure messages reach Android
Turn off iMessage as part of the switch, following Google’s instructions for switching from iMessage to Google Messages. If people still cannot reach you by text, use Google’s troubleshooting steps. People who message you through your Apple ID may need to send messages to your phone number instead.
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- 2 in 1: USB C + USB 3.0, 32GB usb c flash drive has dual ports, usb 3.0 port is applied to all devices which have usb 3.0 interface and usb c port is widely used in all Android smartphones with OTG function
- High Speed USB 3.0: Read speed up to 90 MB/s, Write speed up to 30 MB/s, the speed of USB 3.0 interface is faster than USB 2.0, save time to wait, increases work productivity. Note: Speed will be limited if you use the USB key in the USB 2.0 interface
- Large Compatibility: The USB 3.0 Connector is compatible with USB 3.0 & USB 2.0 backward USB 1.1 devices, such as Laptop, Desktop, Car Audio, Tablet, TV, Speakers, Projector. USB-C port is compatible with all Android Smartphones
- Expand Storage: Good performance in storing, transferring and sharing digital data with families, friends, colleagues, customers. It can expand the capacity of smartphone, you can watch movies or share pictures when you go on vacation with your family
- Note: Make sure your smartphone is equipped with OTG function and need to open OTG function in Settings when you plug memory stick, then you can transfer easily data bewteen different devices
Message coverage depends on the method and the devices involved. Google lists texts and most iMessage content for classic cable, not classic wireless; its upgraded flow lists encrypted messages and messages stored in iCloud for eligible devices. Do not assume every message feature or attachment will transfer.
Check contacts and calendar events
Google lists contacts in both classic cable and classic wireless transfers. However, contacts and calendar events already synced to an account may not be copied during setup. Sign in on Android to the account that holds them, then check that the expected information appears.
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- Seamlessly move content between your USB Type-C smartphone, tablets and Macs and USB Type-A computers(2) | (2) Mobile device requires USB Type-C port and On-The-Go (OTG) support. See the official SanDisk website for a list of compatible devices.
- Free up space on your USB Type-C smartphone(2)
- Automatically back up photos with SanDisk Memory Zone app(3) | (3) Download and installation of SanDisk Memory Zone app required.
- High-performance USB 3.1 Gen 1 drive with 150MB/s read speeds(1) | (1) Read speeds up to 150MB/s. Write speed lower and vary by capacity. USB Type-C port with USB 3.1 Gen 1/ USB 3.0 support required. Based on internal testing; performance may be lower depending upon host device, interface, usage conditions and other factors. 1MB = 1,000,000 bytes.
Open Android Contacts and spot-check names, phone numbers, and email addresses, including a few people you contact often. Check the calendar associated with the account as well. Google covers account-sync issues in its troubleshooting guide.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Verify everything before resetting the iPhone
Keep the iPhone intact until you have checked the data you care about on Android and finished any separate cloud-photo transfer.
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Best Value
- USB-C 2-in-1 storage OTG: The Lexar JumpDrive Dual Drive D40E features USB Type-A and Type-C connectors in a slim, portable form factor for easy device compatibility
- Transfer speeds up to 100MB/s: Based on internal testing, performance may vary depending upon the host device, interface, and usage conditions. 1MB=1,000,000 bytes
- Plug and Play: Widely compatible with USB Type-C smartphones, tablets, laptops, Macs, and traditional Type-A devices, no software installation required. The 360° swivel design allows for easy switching between connectors without the hassle of losing a cap
- Durable & Compact: The Lexar D40E USB memory stick features a metal enclosure, withstands temperatures from 0° to 50° C (32°F to 122°F), and is lightweight at 26g with dimensions of 70.4 x 16.9 x 11.7mm
- Security & Warranty: Securely protects files using an advanced security software solution with 256-bit AES encryption. Backed by a Lexar 3-year limited warranty
- Photos and videos: Compare recent items and older albums, paying particular attention to anything stored only in iCloud.
- Messages: Open several recent and older threads, including group conversations, and inspect representative attachments.
- Contacts: Check names, numbers, and email addresses rather than relying on the transfer-complete screen.
- Accounts and calendar: Confirm that the intended Google account is signed in and account-synced contacts and events have appeared.
- WhatsApp: If you use it, open the app on Android and follow its transfer prompt; Google says an extra step may be needed after setup.
If something is missing, keep the iPhone and work through Google’s transfer troubleshooting guidance before clearing the old phone. Check Android’s available storage and confirm whether the missing item belongs to an account or cloud library that needs a separate sign-in or transfer.
Quick Recap
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