Two people transferring data to a new phone at a kitchen table
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Set up · 10 min

Transfer to a new phone without losing the important parts

Prepare accounts, backups, messages, photos, and authentication before the old phone leaves.

Last reviewedJuly 21, 2026

A calm sequence

  1. 01

    Prepare while the old phone works

    Charge both devices, connect to reliable Wi-Fi, install updates, check available storage, and confirm that you can unlock the old phone and sign into its primary account.

  2. 02

    Verify a backup

    Look for a recent backup date and confirm that essential photos or files also exist somewhere you can reach. A backup symbol alone is not the same as checking.

  3. 03

    Use the setup flow

    Start the new phone and follow its official device-to-device or backup restore steps. Keep both devices powered, nearby, and connected until the transfer says it is complete.

  4. 04

    Test the hidden essentials

    Check calls, texts, photos, contacts, notes, health data, payment cards, work profiles, authentication apps, and any app with locally stored files. Some apps require a fresh sign-in or separate transfer.

  5. 05

    Wait before erasing

    Use the new phone for several days if the return or trade-in window allows. Remove account locks and erase the old phone only after the important data and phone number work correctly.

Pause when you see

  • Not knowing the primary account password
  • Erasing the old phone immediately
  • Assuming every app stores its data in the phone backup

Primary sources

Check the current instructions.