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To move Samsung contacts to a new phone, use Smart Switch if the destination is a Galaxy, sign in to the same Google Account if the contacts already sync there, or import contacts from the SIM or old phone if they are stored locally. The key is to check where the missing contacts live before you assume a transfer failed.
Choose the transfer method that fits your phones
| Method | Best for | What you need to know |
|---|---|---|
| Samsung Smart Switch | Moving to a new Galaxy from an Android or iPhone | Transfers selected content, including contacts. You can choose a wired or wireless connection. Samsung Smart Switch support |
| Google Account sync | Contacts already saved to Google | Sign in to the same Google Account on the new Android phone; synced contacts should appear. Google’s Android transfer guidance |
| Import or export | Contacts saved only on the old phone or SIM | Use Contacts settings to import them or move them into an account. Menu labels and destinations vary by model and software. Samsung contact import and export guidance |
Before choosing, check whether the contacts are stored in a Google Account, another synced account, device storage, or the SIM. Have both phones available and charged. If you are moving to a Galaxy and want other data too, Smart Switch is usually the most direct route. If the contacts already sync to Google, signing in may be all you need.
Move contacts to a Galaxy with Smart Switch
Smart Switch can transfer contacts to a new Galaxy from Android or iOS. Samsung describes the app as a way to bring existing data and settings across when switching to Galaxy. Its available content and transfer steps can vary by device and software version. Samsung Newsroom’s September 16, 2026 Smart Switch article describes a QR-based option without installing the app on an iOS device specifically for One UI 9 and the new eighth-generation Galaxy Z series; that detail should not be assumed for every Galaxy.
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- Choose Receive, select the old phone’s type, and choose a connection method.
- On the old phone, follow the prompts to connect and send data. For a cable transfer, the old phone sends and the new Galaxy receives.
- Choose Everything, select the content categories you want, or use Custom. To move contacts without copying everything, select the relevant accounts, calls, contacts, and messages option and confirm that contacts are included.
- Start the transfer, keep both phones available until it completes, then open Contacts on the Galaxy and check that the expected entries arrived.
Samsung’s support instructions include wired and wireless transfers. A cable must fit both phones, and a compatible adapter may be needed. Some older Galaxy packages included a USB-OTG adapter; newer models do not necessarily include one, so check the exact phone combination and packaging rather than assuming it is supplied. A cable is optional if you use wireless Smart Switch. Samsung’s Smart Switch connection guidance provides model-specific details.
#1 Best Overall
- PRIVACY DISPLAY: Automatically hide your screen from those beside you. The built-in privacy display can be preset¹ to turn on when receiving notifications, typing passwords, or using specific apps
- TYPE IT IN. TRANSFORM IT FAST: Enhance any shot in seconds on your smartphone by using Photo Assist² with Galaxy AI.³ Add objects, restore details, or apply new styles by simply typing or tapping
- NIGHTS, CAPTURED CLEARLY: From gigs to city lights, record and capture moments after dark with clarity using Nightography so your photos and videos stay crisp and clear on your Samsung Galaxy
- MAKE IT. EDIT IT. SHARE IT: Turn everyday moments into something personal with creative tools built right into your mobile phone, whether it’s a special contact photo, custom wallpaper, an invitation or more⁴
- HELP THAT KEEPS UP: Stay in the moment while Now Nudge with Galaxy AI helps you respond faster and stay organized with smart suggestions⁵ that appear exactly when you need them on your phone
Restore contacts by signing in to Google
If the contacts are already saved to a Google Account, sign in to that same account during Android setup or add it afterward. Google says contacts saved in a Google Account, including Gmail, automatically appear on a new Android device after sign-in. This is worth checking before running a full phone-to-phone transfer. Google’s Android setup and transfer guidance
Contacts saved only on the old phone or SIM are not necessarily Google contacts. On supported Android devices, Google Contacts offers a setting to automatically save device-only and SIM contacts to a selected Google Account. Once the contacts have synced, signing in to that account on the new phone can bring them across. Support depends on the device make and model; Google’s guidance also notes limitations for work or school Google Workspace accounts and child accounts. Google Contacts sync guidance
Rank #2
- Please note, this device does not support E-SIM; This 4G model is compatible with all GSM networks worldwide outside of the U.S. In the US, ONLY compatible with T-Mobile and their MVNO's (Metro and Standup). It will NOT work with other CDMA carriers, and it is also not compatible with their MVNO (Visible, Xfinity Mobile, US Mobile, Cricket Wireless, etc).
- Compatibility with certain third-party devices and accessibility accessories, including some hearing aids, may vary depending on manufacturer support, Bluetooth protocols, software compatibility, and regional firmware limitations. For additional hearing aid compatibility information, please refer to Samsung’s official support documentation.
- Camera: 50 MP, f/1.8, (wide), 1/2.76", 0.64µm, AF | 50 MP, f/1.8, (wide), 1/2.76", 0.64µm, AF | 2 MP, f/2.4, (macro). Battery: 5000 mAh, non-removable | A power adapter is NOT included.
Import contacts from a SIM or device storage
If the old phone is available but the contacts are not synced, use its Contacts app to import them into an account or export them for transfer. On many Samsung phones, look for Contacts > Manage contacts > Import or export. Choose the source and destination shown on your device, such as a SIM card or supported storage option. Your exact menu wording and available destinations can differ by model and software version. Samsung’s import and export instructions
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A free scan shows the junk files, broken settings and background clutter dragging Windows down - then fixes them in one click.Free scan · Windows 10 & 11Google’s Android guidance also includes importing contacts from a SIM. If you import them on the new phone, select the appropriate SIM and account destination when prompted so the entries are stored where you expect. Google’s Android transfer guidance
Rank #3
- YOUR CONTENT, SUPER SMOOTH: The ultra-clear 6.7" FHD+ Super AMOLED display of Galaxy A17 5G helps bring your content to life, whether you're scrolling through recipes or video chatting with loved ones.¹
- LIVE FAST. CHARGE FASTER: Focus more on the moment and less on your battery percentage with Galaxy A17 5G. Super Fast Charging powers up your battery so you can get back to life sooner.²
- MEMORIES MADE PICTURE PERFECT: Capture every angle in stunning clarity, from wide family photos to close-ups of friends, with the triple-lens camera on Galaxy A17 5G.
- NEED MORE STORAGE? WE HAVE YOU COVERED: With an improved 2TB of expandable storage, Galaxy A17 5G makes it easy to keep cherished photos, videos and important files readily accessible whenever you need them.³
- BUILT TO LAST: With an improved IP54 rating, Galaxy A17 5G is even more durable than before.⁴ It’s built to resist splashes and dust and comes with a stronger yet slimmer Gorilla Glass Victus front and Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer back.
If some contacts are still missing
- Check the old phone’s storage location. Look at a missing contact’s details or the Contacts app’s account filters to see whether it is saved to Google, another account, device storage, or the SIM.
- Confirm the account on the new phone. Make sure it is the same Google Account or other account that holds the contacts, and check that contact sync is enabled where supported.
- Import local or SIM contacts. If entries were not synced, use Smart Switch or the Contacts app’s import/export option instead of repeating Google sign-in.
- Review Smart Switch’s selections. If you used Smart Switch, check that contacts were selected and that the transfer completed, then inspect the new phone’s Contacts app.
If you choose a wired route, verify the ports on both phones before getting a cable or adapter. Google notes that the cable must fit both devices and an adapter may be required; wireless transfer and account sync do not require buying one. Google’s Android transfer guidance
Quick Recap
Best Value
- TYPE IT IN. TRANSFORM IT FAST: Enhance any shot in seconds on your smartphone by using Photo Assist¹ with Galaxy AI.² Add objects, restore details, or apply new styles by simply typing or tapping
- MAKE IT. EDIT IT. SHARE IT: Turn everyday moments into something personal with creative tools built right into your mobile whether it’s a special contact photo, custom wallpaper, an invitation or more³
- FAST. POWERFUL. AI-READY: Power through your day with AI-accelerated performance from our fastest, smoothest and most powerful Galaxy processor yet, built to keep up with everything you do
- IMMENSELY IMMERSIVE: No matter where you are or what you’re watching, your favorite videos and more come to life with the vibrant display on Galaxy S26
- FIT EVERYONE IN THE SHOT: Group selfies are easier on your Samsung phone with a wider front camera⁴ that captures more of the scene, so no one gets left out of the moment
Rank #4
- YOUR CONTENT, SUPER SMOOTH: The ultra-clear 6.7" FHD+ Super AMOLED display of Galaxy A17 5G helps bring your content to life, whether you're scrolling through recipes or video chatting with loved ones.¹
- LIVE FAST. CHARGE FASTER: Focus more on the moment and less on your battery percentage with Galaxy A17 5G. Super Fast Charging powers up your battery so you can get back to life sooner.²
- MEMORIES MADE PICTURE PERFECT: Capture every angle in stunning clarity, from wide family photos to close-ups of friends, with the triple-lens camera on Galaxy A17 5G.
- NEED MORE STORAGE? WE HAVE YOU COVERED: With an improved 2TB of expandable storage, Galaxy A17 5G makes it easy to keep cherished photos, videos and important files readily accessible whenever you need them.³
- BUILT TO LAST: With an improved IP54 rating, Galaxy A17 5G is even more durable than before.⁴ It’s built to resist splashes and dust and comes with a stronger yet slimmer Gorilla Glass Victus front and Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer back.
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