February 7, 2023, 1:52 pm | Read time: 3 minutes
In the past, switching from an iPhone to an Android smartphone was only possible with dubious paid apps. But now, Google itself offers options that make the move easy and secure.
Today, Google’s Android is the most widely used mobile operating system in the world. There are many good reasons to switch from an iPhone to an Android smartphone–but the transition between the two systems deters many users. TECHBOOK explains how the switch can be successful with the right tools.
Overview
How to Successfully Switch from iPhone to Android Smartphone
There are several ways to transfer personal files, data, and settings from the iPhone to the new Android smartphone. One requirement is to log in with the Google account on the iPhone before the move.
Here you can see in the video how the switch works best:
1. Method: Direct Connection via Cable
Arguably the simplest way to move to an Android smartphone is to transfer via cable from the iPhone. During the setup of the new device, select the option to bring data from an old device. Then just connect the cable, choose the desired options for the move, and you’re done.
2. Method: “Switch to Android” App
If no cable is available, the transfer can also be done via Wi-Fi connection. Before switching, install the “Switch to Android” app on the iPhone. During the setup of the new Android smartphone, a QR code will appear, which you need to scan with the app on the iPhone. This creates a Wi-Fi connection. The app then lets you select the data to transfer. It also advises you to disable iMessage and even helps transfer photos and videos from iCloud to the new smartphone.
3. Method: Move with Google One
The Google One app handles the entire move via the Google account. Download the app from the App Store and log in with your Google account. Create a backup of your data through the app and wait for the process to complete. Don’t forget to disable iMessage, or you may not receive SMS on the new device. Once you log in to the Android smartphone with the same Google account, your data backup will be automatically restored.
Setting Up a New Android Smartphone – Step by Step
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Android Devices Often Have Migration Assistants
Many smartphone manufacturers offer free software to facilitate the move. For example, Samsung provides Smart Switch, a free software usable for all Android devices. Other manufacturers like Sony or OnePlus have their own migration assistants to help ease the transition. During setup, it’s often possible to connect the old device for data transfer.
For data transfer via “On-the-Go,” meaning cable from smartphone to smartphone, you should first download the respective app onto the Android device. Some smartphone manufacturers include an adapter for a USB plug. Once the iPhone is connected to the new smartphone and the user has agreed to the transfer on the Apple device, the move of the desired data begins.
Also interesting: Switching from an Android smartphone to an iPhone
Other Things to Consider
If you’re completely leaving the Apple world, remember to disable message reception via iMessage. Otherwise, SMS may not arrive on the new phone. Users should also cancel ongoing subscriptions on the iPhone: In the system settings under Apple ID and “Subscriptions,” you can view and cancel all active subscriptions.