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How to Set Up a Samsung Galaxy S26+ and Restore Apps and Settings

Use Smart Switch during or after setup to move supported data to a Galaxy S26+. Google backup restoration happens in the Setup Wizard, and some apps may need manual installation.
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To restore apps and settings as part of a Google backup, do it during the Galaxy S26+ Setup Wizard after signing in to your Google account. To move data from an old Android phone or iPhone, use Samsung Smart Switch during setup—or later if the S26+ is already configured. The available content depends on the devices and transfer method, and not every app or setting is guaranteed to return.

Before you start

  • Charge both phones and keep them connected to power if possible. Samsung warns that transferring can take time and recommends a stable power supply.
  • Have the old phone, its unlock method, and any relevant Google or Apple account credentials ready.
  • If you plan to use a cable or removable storage, check that the connection is compatible and that the storage has room. Wireless transfer is also available, so buying an accessory is not required.

Samsung’s current transfer directions are for the Galaxy S26 family rather than specifically the S26+. Setup screens and options can vary by carrier and software version.

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Set up the Galaxy S26+ and transfer from another phone

  1. Turn on the Galaxy S26+ and follow the on-screen Setup Wizard. Choose a language, begin setup, and review the terms; accept only those you agree to.
  2. When prompted to set up from another device, select the path for your old Android/Galaxy phone or iPhone/iPad. Follow the displayed prompts. On supported quick-setup flows, scan the QR code on the new phone with the old device.
  3. Choose Smart Switch and select wireless or cable transfer, or another offered transfer route. For the wireless flow in Samsung’s S26 instructions, keep the phones within four inches of each other.
  4. Choose the data categories you want to transfer and start the process. Available content varies by device and method, so review the selection shown on your phones rather than assuming every category will move.
  5. When the transfer finishes, follow any remaining setup prompts. Open important apps and check the settings you rely on.

Choose the transfer method that fits

Method Best suited to Requirements and limits
Smart Switch wireless Phone-to-phone transfers when both devices can connect wirelessly Samsung’s S26 instructions say to keep the devices within four inches during this flow. Transferable data varies by device and method.
Smart Switch cable A wired transfer when you have a compatible cable An OTG adapter may be needed depending on the old phone’s port and cable. Samsung’s general cable guidance says both devices should be at least 20% charged.
USB OTG external storage Backing up to removable storage and restoring from it Requires a compatible connection and enough storage space. Not all models support microSD, and storage capacity can limit what you select.
Google Drive backup Restoring an eligible Google backup on a new or reset phone Restore through the Setup Wizard after Google sign-in; Samsung says it cannot be started directly from device settings.
iCloud transfer Moving selected iPhone content from iCloud to Galaxy Requires Apple ID sign-in and verification. Content availability remains subject to device and method support.
Smart Switch after setup Transferring data after the Galaxy is already configured Later Smart Switch transfers are possible. The QR quick-setup route after setup requires a factory reset.

If more than one route is available, base your choice on whether setup is already complete, what kind of phone you are moving from, and whether you have the compatible cable or storage needed for a wired or removable-storage route. Choose Google backup when you specifically need to restore an eligible Google backup through the Setup Wizard.

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Restore a Google backup during setup

On a new or reset Galaxy S26+, sign in to the Google account associated with the backup and follow the Setup Wizard’s restore prompts. Samsung places Google Drive backup restoration in that wizard; it is not a restore action you can launch later from the phone’s settings. If you have already completed setup, see the next section before considering a reset.

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If the Galaxy S26+ is already set up

You can still use Smart Switch to transfer photos, files, and other supported data after setup. Samsung’s QR quick-setup route is different: using it after setup requires a factory reset, which deletes data currently on the device. Do not reset just to use that route unless you have secured anything on the S26+ that you need to keep.

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What to expect for apps and settings

Smart Switch can offer app and data transfer, but installation may not succeed for every app. Samsung advises downloading apps that are missing after transfer from the Play Store, Galaxy Store, or the app provider’s website. You may also need to sign in again or complete an app’s own reactivation steps.

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Samsung states: “The types of data that can be transferred using Smart Switch or Google Drive may vary depending on your device and the transfer method selected.” Its guidance does not promise that every app’s internal data, password, or setting will be restored. Check essential apps individually after setup.

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