iTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
Samsung Smart Switch can copy selected photos, contacts, messages, videos, documents, and other supported data from an Android phone or an iPhone/iPad to a Galaxy device. You can transfer wirelessly, use a compatible USB cable or adapter, or use Samsung’s computer, external-storage, or iCloud workflows. A cable is optional, but the exact content available depends on the source device and route.
Smart Switch is not a complete clone of your old phone. Account-synced data may reappear only after you sign in, private or DRM-protected content can be excluded, and some app data and passwords do not move. Use the steps below to choose the safest method and verify what arrived.
What Smart Switch can move
Samsung’s content-compatibility list is the authority for the connected-device combination. The categories below describe the practical differences between Android and iPhone/iPad sources.
| Content | Android to Galaxy | iPhone or iPad to Galaxy |
|---|---|---|
| Photos and videos | Supported when stored in transferable device storage; cloud-only items may require account sign-in. | Supported through Samsung’s cable and iCloud workflows when the items are available to the selected route. |
| Contacts | Supported contacts can be copied; contacts synchronized to an account may appear after you add that account on the Galaxy. | Supported in the documented iPhone/iPad transfer methods. |
| Messages | Supported messages can be copied, subject to the connected-device support list. | Supported in Samsung’s iPhone/iPad guidance, with route-dependent limitations. |
| Apps | Smart Switch may offer Android apps and, depending on the source and version, additional Galaxy-specific data or app data. | Samsung can recommend Android versions of some apps, but Apple-owned apps themselves cannot be transferred as apps. |
| Documents and other files | Supported files can move if they are not private, protected, or otherwise restricted. | Samsung lists documents and other supported items for relevant iPhone/iPad workflows. |
| Passwords and protected data | Availability varies by app, security setting, and storage location. | Passwords and Apple Keychain data do not transfer through the documented Smart Switch method. |
The table is a guide, not a guarantee for every file. Samsung states that supported content varies by the devices connected. Review the categories Smart Switch displays after it examines your phones rather than assuming that every item in a category qualifies.
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
Prepare both phones before transferring
Preparation prevents the most common interruptions and gives you a way back if a category is missing.
- Keep both devices available. Do not erase or trade in the old phone until you have checked the Galaxy.
- Charge both phones. Samsung warns that a low battery can interrupt a transfer. Plug them in if either battery is marginal.
- Install or update Smart Switch when prompted. The app and the Galaxy’s setup flow can show different labels by software version and region; follow the current on-screen wording.
- Make space on the Galaxy. Photos and videos can consume substantial storage. Remove enough space for the categories you select, plus room for normal phone operation.
- Keep account credentials ready. Have the passwords for Google, Apple, messaging, cloud-photo, and other accounts that you plan to add to the Galaxy. Account-synced content is often retrieved by signing in rather than copied as a file.
- Protect irreplaceable files separately. If a photo, document, or chat is critical, retain an independent backup before starting. Smart Switch does not promise a complete clone.
- Unlock the source phone if asked. Security prompts, trust dialogs, or permissions on the old device must be accepted for the selected route to read its data.
Choose wireless, wired, iCloud, or a computer transfer
Samsung documents several routes in its Smart Switch transfer guide and its iPhone and iPad instructions, updated 23 February 2026. Select the route that fits your source and accessories.
| Route | Best when | What you need to know |
|---|---|---|
| Wireless phone-to-phone | You want to avoid finding or buying a cable. | Both phones must remain available during the wireless session. Samsung does not publish a universal speed ranking or fixed completion time. |
| USB cable or adapter | You already have compatible connectors and want a direct phone-to-phone link. | Check both ports. A USB-C-to-USB-C cable may suit two USB-C phones; other combinations can require an adapter. Compatibility depends on both devices. |
| iPhone/iPad with iCloud | Your Apple device is not convenient to cable to the Galaxy or its content is already in iCloud. | Use Samsung’s iPhone/iPad flow, sign in as requested, and select the categories Smart Switch can retrieve. Apple passwords and Keychain data are excluded. |
| Computer or external storage | You prefer an intermediate backup or the phones cannot connect directly. | Samsung’s US guide documents Smart Switch computer and external-storage workflows. The available categories still depend on the source and the backup. |
There is no generally applicable transfer-time estimate in Samsung’s reviewed guides. File volume, wireless conditions, cable type, storage speed, and device compatibility all affect completion. Do not disconnect either phone merely because the progress screen pauses.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Move data from Android to a Galaxy
Wireless Android-to-Galaxy transfer
- On the new Galaxy, open Smart Switch from the app list or start it from the phone’s initial setup and data-transfer screen.
- Choose the option indicating that the Galaxy is receiving or importing data, then select Galaxy/Android as the old-device type.
- Choose Wireless when the connection choices appear.
- Open Smart Switch on the old Android phone if it is not already open, choose that it is sending data, and approve the connection or pairing prompt shown on both phones.
- Allow the requested permissions on the old phone. Without access to contacts, messages, photos, or files, those categories cannot be read.
- Wait while Smart Switch analyzes the source. Select only the categories you want, such as contacts, messages, photos, videos, documents, apps, or other items that the screen lists for your devices.
- Review the estimated selection and the Galaxy’s available storage, then tap the on-screen command to start. Keep the phones close, unlocked when prompted, and powered until Smart Switch reports completion.
- When the transfer finishes, follow any prompts to install available apps or complete account setup. Do not wipe the old Android phone yet.
Wired Android-to-Galaxy transfer
- Check the connector on each phone and obtain a cable or adapter that supports those two ports. Do not assume that a charging-only or physically mismatched cable will provide data access.
- Connect the phones, then open Smart Switch on the Galaxy or launch the setup transfer flow.
- Select receiving/importing data, choose Android/Galaxy as the source, and select the wired or USB option.
- Unlock the old phone and accept any USB, trust, or permission prompt. If no prompt appears, disconnect, unlock both phones, and reconnect.
- When Smart Switch lists available categories, select the data to copy and start the transfer. Leave the cable connected and avoid using either phone until the completion message.
- Inspect the Galaxy before disconnecting permanently. If a category is missing, reconnect while the old phone is still intact and run a smaller transfer for that category.
Android app and account expectations
Android-to-Galaxy transfers can expose more Galaxy-specific data or app data than an iPhone-to-Galaxy transfer, but availability is device- and app-dependent. Smart Switch may copy an app, offer it for installation, or omit it when the developer, version, region, or stored data is incompatible. An app’s server account, encrypted vault, license, or private database may require the app’s own restore process.
Move data from an iPhone or iPad to a Galaxy
Cable transfer from iPhone or iPad
- Keep the iPhone or iPad unlocked and identify the connector on it and on the Galaxy. Use a compatible data cable and any required adapter; connector compatibility is required on both ends.
- On the Galaxy, open Smart Switch or the setup transfer screen and choose to receive or import data from an iPhone or iPad.
- Choose the cable option, connect the devices, and respond to the Apple trust prompt if it appears. Enter the Apple device passcode when requested.
- Allow Smart Switch to scan the Apple device. The categories shown can include contacts, messages, photos, videos, documents, and recommended apps, but the exact list depends on the source and software.
- Select the categories to import, review the selection, and start the transfer. Keep both devices connected and powered until Smart Switch finishes.
- Complete any prompts to download Android versions of recommended apps. These are installations for the Galaxy, not copies of the Apple app packages or their protected data.
iCloud route for iPhone or iPad
- On the Galaxy, start Smart Switch from setup or the app itself and choose to receive data from an iPhone or iPad.
- Select the iCloud option when it is offered. Samsung’s iPhone/iPad guide walks through the current sign-in and verification prompts; labels can vary by region and software version.
- Sign in with the Apple account requested by the flow and complete any verification step. Smart Switch can retrieve only the iCloud categories that the service and your account make available.
- Choose the displayed data categories, such as contacts, messages, photos, videos, documents, or recommended apps, and begin importing them to the Galaxy.
- Keep the Galaxy connected to power if the import is large and wait for the completion status. Check the Apple account’s security settings afterward if you no longer want the temporary access.
Samsung’s iPhone/iPad support guidance states: "Passwords and Apple Keychain data are not transferred via Smart Switch." Save or recreate those credentials using the individual service’s recovery method before relying on the Galaxy as your only device.
Use a computer or external storage as an intermediate step
Samsung’s US transfer guide also documents Smart Switch workflows that use a computer or external storage. This route is useful when a direct wireless link is inconvenient, the phones use incompatible ports, or you want an intermediate backup.
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
- Install the current desktop Smart Switch software if Samsung’s instructions for your computer platform require it, or prepare the supported external storage device.
- Connect the old phone and create a Smart Switch backup, or copy the supported export to the external storage, following the prompts shown for that source.
- Safely disconnect the old phone and connect the Galaxy or attach the storage to the Galaxy using a compatible adapter.
- Open Smart Switch on the Galaxy, choose the restore or import option, select the backup source, and review the categories available for restoration.
- Start the restore and leave the computer, storage, and Galaxy connected until the status indicates completion.
- Verify the restored categories on the Galaxy before deleting the intermediate backup or erasing the old phone.
A computer or storage backup does not remove content restrictions. Smart Switch can restore only what was included in the backup and what the destination supports.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
Selecting categories without creating surprises
Smart Switch presents a selection screen after it identifies the source. Use it deliberately:
- Photos and videos: Include the folders you actually need. Cloud-library thumbnails or items marked online-only may not be local files for Smart Switch to read.
- Contacts: Decide whether you want device contacts, SIM contacts, and account contacts. Add the same account on the Galaxy if you want its server-synchronized address book to continue updating.
- Messages: Select the message category shown for your device. Encrypted or app-specific conversations may use a separate export and restore process.
- Apps: Treat the list as a starting point. An app may be installed again without bringing its login, offline files, game progress, or secure data.
- Documents and files: Review storage locations and exclusions. Private storage and DRM-protected files are among the types Samsung lists as restricted.
- Settings or other categories: Select them only when Smart Switch explicitly offers them for your source and you understand that Android and iOS settings are not interchangeable.
What Smart Switch will not move automatically
Account-synchronized information
Email, calendars, cloud contacts, cloud-photo libraries, and similar services may be synchronized from the provider rather than copied by Smart Switch. Add the relevant account on the Galaxy, enable the desired sync categories, and allow the service to repopulate. If an item exists only online, a transfer scan may not list it as a local file.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
Private, protected, or DRM-restricted content
Samsung identifies private storage and DRM-protected files among exclusions. Secure folders, encrypted app vaults, and media protected by a license may require the original app or service’s own migration process. Do not work around those protections by copying unknown database files; use the provider’s supported export or restore feature.
Apple passwords, Keychain, and Apple-owned apps
For the documented iPhone/iPad-to-Galaxy method, passwords and Apple Keychain data do not transfer. Apple-owned apps cannot be moved as app packages to Android. Smart Switch may show recommended Android alternatives or let you download versions that exist in the Android app marketplace, but you must sign in and restore data separately where the app supports it.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →App-specific records and logins
Two phones can have the same app installed while holding different local databases. Banking tokens, authenticator secrets, downloaded media, game saves, and work profiles commonly use separate security controls. Open each important app on the Galaxy and follow its migration, backup, or account-recovery instructions.
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Verify the Galaxy before erasing the old phone
Use this checklist immediately after Smart Switch reports completion:
- Open Gallery and inspect recent, older, and randomly selected photos and videos. Check albums and any folders that matter.
- Open Contacts, search for several names, and confirm that the expected account is selected for display and synchronization.
- Open Messages and check both recent and older conversations, including attachments you cannot replace.
- Open the app list and identify which apps installed, which were merely recommended, and which are absent. Download replacements only from trusted official app listings.
- Sign in to the accounts that supply mail, calendars, cloud files, or photos, then wait for synchronization to finish.
- Open high-value apps one by one. Confirm logins, two-factor authentication, local documents, saved progress, and payment or work profiles using each provider’s procedure.
- Check the Galaxy’s storage and battery status, and make a fresh backup once the data is correct.
- Keep the old phone untouched for a verification period that suits your risk tolerance. Factory-reset it only after you have recovered anything missing.
Troubleshoot a failed or incomplete transfer
The phones do not connect
- Unlock both phones, reopen Smart Switch, and retry the pairing prompt.
- For wireless transfer, keep the phones close and remove interruptions such as aggressive battery-saving modes.
- For a cable transfer, test the cable and adapter with another data connection, check both ports for debris, and confirm that the cable supports data rather than charging only.
- Update Smart Switch when the app offers an update, then restart both phones before trying again.
A category is missing from the selection screen
Smart Switch hides categories that the connected source, route, or software cannot provide. Try the route Samsung documents for that source, sign in to the account that owns the data, or use the app’s own export. Do not assume that a missing category will appear after repeatedly restarting the same transfer.
The transfer stops partway through
- Reconnect both phones to power and make sure the Galaxy has enough free storage.
- Restart the transfer with fewer categories, beginning with irreplaceable contacts and messages, then photos and videos.
- For a wired attempt, reconnect firmly and avoid moving the cable. For wireless, keep both devices near each other and prevent either screen from being put into a restrictive power mode.
- If the same app or file repeatedly causes failure, leave that item unchecked and use its official backup or restore process.
Apps arrived without their data
Reinstalling an app does not guarantee that its private database, login, license, or encrypted content will arrive. Sign in, look for the app’s restore option, and contact the service provider if its account recovery is required. This is expected for many protected or server-managed records.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Bottom line: use Smart Switch as a selective migration, not a perfect clone
Choose wireless when you want to avoid cable compatibility, wired transfer when you have a suitable cable or adapter, and the iCloud route for supported iPhone/iPad content already stored there. Select categories carefully, expect account sign-ins and app-specific restores, and verify Gallery, Contacts, Messages, and critical apps before erasing the old phone. Samsung’s official compatibility details are at its content-transfer list, with route instructions in the US transfer guide and the iPhone/iPad guide.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
