To transfer data, start your new Pixel and follow its setup prompts to copy from your old Android phone or iPhone. Choose a wired or wireless option if offered; a cable is optional, but it must support data. If the old phone is unavailable, restore an existing Google Account backup instead. The exact setup flow depends on the Pixel generation and the phone you’re switching from.
Before you start
Prepare both phones before opening the Pixel’s transfer flow. A stable connection and enough time to finish copying help avoid interruptions.
- Charge both phones, keep them close together, and connect them to a strong Wi-Fi network.
- Unlock the old phone and make sure you know its screen-lock code.
- Back up the old phone first if practical. A transfer is not a substitute for a backup.
- If you plan to connect the phones, use a compatible data-capable cable. Google warns, “Not all power cables can transfer data.”
- For an iPhone transfer, install available system updates beforehand if practical.
How do I transfer everything from my old phone to my new Google Pixel?
Use the Pixel’s setup flow to copy data directly from the old phone. Google’s transfer options and screen names vary by Pixel generation, source phone, and operating-system version. A direct transfer can copy supported items such as contacts, calendars, messages, photos, videos, files, and Play Store apps, but it is not necessarily a complete clone.
Android to Pixel
- Turn on the new Pixel and begin setup. When prompted, choose the option to copy apps and data from an Android device.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to pair the old phone. On Pixel 8 and later, Google describes a QR-assisted pairing flow; depending on the devices, you can transfer wirelessly or use a cable.
- If prompted, connect the phones with a compatible data cable, or select the wireless option when it is available for your devices.
- Unlock the old phone, approve the connection, and select the data you want to copy.
- Keep both phones powered, unlocked as needed, and connected until the Pixel says the transfer is complete. Some apps may take additional time to download and appear.
Earlier Pixel setup paths may show a “Copy apps & data” screen and recommend a cable, with Wi-Fi available when the sending Android and receiving Pixel meet Google’s requirements. If messages are stored on the SIM card rather than in phone storage, move them to the phone before starting. For supported newer Pixels, Android Switch may let you complete an interrupted transfer later.
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- Attention-grabbing design meets the latest evolution of the Google Pixel Camera on the new Google Pixel 11 Pro; Gemini Intelligence helps manage details so you can live in the moment[1]; and the phone is available in two sizes
- Unlocked Android phone gives you the flexibility to change carriers and choose your own data plan: Works with Google Fi, Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T, and other major carriers[2]
- Stay informed without looking at your screen: When your phone is face down, Pixel HiLight gently alerts you with subtle glowing lights when your favorite contacts are calling or you’re talking with Gemini; exclusive to Google Pixel 11 Pro phones
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- Two new cameras for more brilliant photos: A larger telephoto sensor captures 30% more light for clear, beautiful photos and videos, even in the dark[3]; Pixel’s longest zoom ever helps you capture details from impressive distances[4]
iPhone to Pixel
- On the iPhone, turn off iMessage and FaceTime before switching. This helps prevent messages from continuing to route through Apple services.
- Turn on the Pixel and start its setup. Choose the option to copy data from an iPhone when it appears.
- Use the wired, wireless, or combined method offered for your Pixel and iOS version. If using a cable, make sure it supports data and has compatible connectors; follow the prompts for any adapter.
- Keep the iPhone unlocked, charged, and connected while you approve the transfer and choose what to copy.
- When setup finishes, check that important contacts, messages, photos, and apps are present, then sign in to accounts that need separate authentication.
Google’s direct-transfer guidance covers only photos stored locally on the iPhone. For photos held only in iCloud, use Google Photos sync or Apple’s iCloud migration tool rather than assuming they will be copied by the phone-to-phone transfer. eSIM transfer depends on the carrier and devices, so confirm availability with your carrier.
Can I transfer data from Android to Pixel without a cable?
Yes, if the Pixel and old Android phone support the wireless option shown during setup. Follow the pairing instructions on both phones and keep them near one another, charged, and connected during the copy. The availability and exact steps depend on the Pixel generation and the source phone’s operating-system requirements.
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- Google Pixel 10a is a durable, everyday phone with more[1]; snap brilliant photography on a simple, powerful camera, get 30+ hours out of a full charge[2], and do more with helpful AI like Gemini[3]
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- The Actua display with 3,000-nit peak brightness shows up clear as day, even in direct sunlight[5]
- Plan, create, and get more done with help from Gemini, your built-in AI assistant[3]; have it screen spam calls while you focus[6]; chat with Gemini to brainstorm your meal plan[7], or bring your ideas to life with Nano Banana[8]
A cable can be useful when the wireless pairing option is unavailable or you prefer a wired connection, but it is not universally required. Choose a cable that supports data, not just charging, and that fits both devices or works with the appropriate adapter. Google does not establish a universal speed advantage for either method.
What transfers—and what may need separate attention?
Google’s listed transfer categories have exceptions, and the exact exclusions depend on the source phone and transfer method. Check the items that matter most instead of treating the move as a full device clone.
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1Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems2Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute3Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors- Third-party app data: Some apps do not use Android backup, so their data may not copy automatically.
- Accounts and synced information: Non-Google accounts and their contacts or calendars may need to be added or synced separately.
- Hidden or locked content: Items in hidden or locked folders may be excluded.
- Chat histories: Verify WhatsApp and other important messaging apps using the app-specific transfer process for your old phone and Pixel.
- Device-specific settings: Some settings may not carry over.
Can I transfer data after I’ve already set up my Pixel?
Pixel 9 and later support adding transferred data after initial setup through Android Switch. On earlier Pixel generations, the documented transfer flow may be centered on initial setup, and a failed transfer may require restarting setup to try again. Check the instructions for your specific model before resetting or erasing anything.
How do I restore data if the old phone is unavailable?
You can restore from a Google Account backup if one exists. During Pixel setup, connect to Wi-Fi, sign in to the same Google Account used for the backup, and follow the restore prompts. Pixel 9 and later also support restoring after setup through Settings and Android Switch. A backup restore cannot recover content that was never backed up, and available data depends on what the backup contains.
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- Google Pixel 10 Pro is the ultimate Pixel experience, featuring advanced AI with Gemini, unbelievable camera quality, impeccable design in two sizes, and the next-gen Google Tensor G5 chip[1]
- Unlocked Android phone gives you the flexibility to change carriers and choose your own data plan[2]; it works - Google Fi, Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T, and other major carriers
- Get a head start on syncing your data before it even arrives: After you purchase your new Pixel, look for an email that explains how to transfer your photos, videos, passwords, and more in just a few quick steps[11]
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- Pixel 10 Pro is built with durable aluminum and Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 for scratch and drop resistance; the 6.3-inch Super Actua display with 3,300-nit peak brightness is easy on the eyes, even in direct sunlight[3,13,18]
What should I do if my phone transfer gets stuck?
Work through these checks before concluding that data is missing:
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- Google Pixel 7 is powered by Google Tensor G2; it’s faster, more efficient, and more secure, with the best photo and video quality yet on Pixel[1].Other camera description:Front,Rear.Bluetooth Version 5.2 with dual antennas for enhanced quality and connection.
- Unlocked Android 5G phone gives you the flexibility to change carriers and choose your own data plan[2]; works with Google Fi, Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T, and other major carriers
- Pixel’s Adaptive Battery can last over 24 hours; when Extreme Battery Saver is turned on, it can last up to 72 hours[3]
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- Check the connection. For a wired transfer, reseat both ends and try another cable known to support data. If using an adapter, make sure it is connected to the Pixel and is appropriate for the other phone and cable.
- Keep the devices ready. Charge both phones, keep them close, unlock them when prompted, and maintain the Wi-Fi or cable connection for the duration of the transfer.
- Check Pixel storage. A transfer can pause if the destination phone runs out of space. Free up storage before trying again if necessary.
- Update and restart if pairing fails. Install available system updates on the old device and restart it, then try pairing again.
- Use the recovery option for your setup path. Newer Pixels may allow Android Switch to complete supported transfers later. On some older Pixel setup paths, a failed in-setup transfer may require restarting setup. Avoid erasing the old phone until you have checked the Pixel and confirmed that important data is available.
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