To move data to a new Google Pixel, start the phone’s setup and follow its copy prompts while your old phone is nearby. Depending on the devices, you can transfer by cable, wirelessly with a QR code, or both. If the old phone is unavailable, restore from a Google Account backup. Pixel 9 and later also support adding data after setup.
Choose a transfer method
| Method | Best when | What you need |
|---|---|---|
| Wireless or QR pairing | Your old phone is available and the Pixel’s setup flow offers pairing. | Both phones, nearby, with Wi-Fi available. QR pairing is documented for Pixel 8 and later. |
| USB cable | You want a direct connection and the setup flow supports a wired transfer. | A cable that supports data, not just charging. USB-C to USB-C may work for supported phones. |
| Google Account backup | Your old phone is unavailable, or you want to restore an existing backup. | Access to the Google Account containing the backup and a Wi-Fi connection. |
Google says a Pixel can pair with a previous Android or Pixel to transfer wirelessly, by cable, or using both, depending on the setup flow and connection. Google does not establish that one method is always faster. Follow the prompts shown on your specific phones. Google Pixel Phone Help: Transfer data from your previous device to a Pixel phone — Android.
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Prepare both phones
- Charge both devices and keep them close together during the transfer.
- Connect the new Pixel to strong Wi-Fi. Keep Wi-Fi available for wireless setup and for data that syncs from online services.
- On the old phone, sync apps and data with the Google Account you plan to use, and save passwords and passkeys where you can access them.
- Back up the old phone if possible. A backup gives you another restore route if direct transfer is interrupted or the old phone becomes unavailable.
- Check that the Pixel has enough free storage. Google says a transfer can pause if the new phone runs out of space.
- Have a suitable data cable available if you plan to try a wired transfer. A charging cable may not carry data.
Google’s preparation and troubleshooting guidance is in Transfer data from your previous device to a Pixel phone — Android and Fix issues with data transfer on a new Pixel phone — Android.
Transfer from Android or another Pixel during setup
Use QR pairing on Pixel 8 and later when offered
- Turn on the new Pixel and begin setup. Choose the option indicating that you are setting up a Pixel or Android device.
- When the new phone displays a setup notification or QR code, open the notification on the old phone and scan the code as prompted.
- Keep both phones unlocked and follow the on-screen instructions to connect them.
- Review the data categories offered and choose whether to copy everything available or select items individually.
Google documents QR pairing for Pixel 8 and later. The available wireless, cable, or combined route depends on the connection and the choices displayed during setup. For Pixel 9 and later, Google also documents a way to transfer data after initial setup.
#1 Best Overall
- 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
- Magic Capture catches the moment as you live it: With just one tap, Pixel 11 Pro captures video and photos, and automatically edits, crops, and unblurs a curated collection, ready to share – and you get the memory of how it felt to be in the moment
- 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]
Use a cable when the phones’ setup flow supports it
- Start the new Pixel’s setup and choose the option to copy apps and data from an old device.
- Connect the unlocked old phone to the Pixel with a data-capable cable, following the prompts on both screens.
- Choose all available data or select the categories you want to transfer, then let the devices finish copying.
Google provides generation-specific instructions: Pixel 8 and later have a separate cable flow from Pixel Fold, Pixel 7 Pro, and earlier models. Some older setup screens reveal a cable route when you tap the “Copy apps & data” image five times. If that instruction does not match your screen, use the route shown for your Pixel generation in Google’s Android transfer instructions.
Use Wi-Fi transfer on supported older devices
Google’s older-device guidance describes Wi-Fi transfer for supported combinations. In that guidance, the old Android phone must run Android 5 or later and the Pixel Android 12 or later. If the wireless option is missing, the old device may not support it; use a cable or restore from backup if available.
Rank #2
- 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]
- Unlocked Android phone gives you the flexibility to change carriers and choose your own data plan; it works with Google Fi, Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T, and other major carriers
- Pixel 10a is sleek and durable, with a super smooth finish, scratch-resistant Corning Gorilla Glass 7i display, and IP68 water and dust protection[4]
- 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]
Transfer from an iPhone
Google’s current iPhone-to-Pixel instructions describe transferring most iPhone data to Pixel 10 and later, including passwords and passkeys, Wi-Fi networks, texts, photos, contacts, apps, and calendars. The support page’s stated device cutoff matters: do not assume the same transfer options are available on every Pixel generation. See Google Pixel Phone Help: Transfer data from your previous device to a Pixel phone — iPhone.
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- Before switching, turn off iMessage and FaceTime on the iPhone, as Google advises.
- During Pixel setup, choose the iPhone transfer option and follow the connection instructions shown on both phones. Use a supported cable or wireless route if offered.
- Review the categories and let the transfer complete before disconnecting the devices.
Google says that, in this transfer flow, only photos saved locally on the iPhone transfer directly from iCloud. For photos stored in iCloud, Google suggests syncing them through Google Photos or using Apple’s iCloud migration tool. Do not treat a direct phone-to-phone transfer as a complete copy of all cloud-only iPhone content.
What transfers—and what may not
Google’s Android-to-Pixel guidance lists these data types among those that may transfer in the scenarios it covers:
- Google Account information, contacts, calendar events, text messages and attachments, and call history.
- Photos, videos, music or audio files, and files or folders.
- Device settings, Wi-Fi login details, and wallpaper.
- Apps, passwords, passkeys, and other supported data.
Availability depends on how the data was stored and which apps or devices are involved:
Rank #4
- 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]
- Pixel’s pro camera system makes everything look amazing, even in low light; capture more of the scene with advanced Google AI models, and bring out incredible details with 100x Pro Res Zoom, stunning 50 MP images, and super steady videos in 8K[10]
- 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]
- Apps transfer when they were downloaded or purchased through Google Play. Some app data may need to sync separately or require signing in again.
- Passwords and passkeys depend on Google Password Manager and the account or service that stores them.
- Notes and alarms transfer when they are stored in Google apps such as Keep; other apps may not expose their data to the transfer process.
- Manufacturer-specific app data and some device settings may not transfer. A Pixel transfer is not guaranteed to reproduce every detail of the old phone.
Google’s categories and qualifications are listed in its Android transfer guide.
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If the old phone is unavailable but a Google Account backup exists, connect the Pixel to Wi-Fi during setup, sign in to the same account, choose the previous device backup, and select what to restore. Keep the Pixel on power and strong Wi-Fi while cloud data—such as photos, videos, and messages—continues to sync. Google’s instructions are in Restore data on a Pixel phone.
Best Value
- 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]
- The 6.3-inch Pixel 7 display is super sharp, with rich, vivid colors; it’s fast and responsive for smoother gaming, scrolling, and moving between apps[4]
- Google Pixel 7 has wide and ultrawide lenses with up to 8x Super Res Zoom[5]; and Cinematic Blur brings more drama to your videos
Google says this restore route can use only one previous device. Restoring from a different source requires resetting the Pixel, so check the selected backup carefully before proceeding.
Add data after setup or recover an interrupted transfer
Pixel 9 and later
If initial setup is finished, Google documents an Android Switch option for adding data on Pixel 9 and later: open Settings > Accounts & backup > Android Switch > Start, then follow the prompts. This is also the post-setup recovery route Google recommends for adding missing data after an interrupted transfer on those models. See Google’s transfer troubleshooting instructions.
Earlier Pixel models
The cited Google guidance does not document the same post-setup Android Switch path for earlier models. Depending on what was backed up and what setup options remain available, recovery may require returning to setup or using another supported restore route. Avoid factory-resetting the phone until you have checked Google’s instructions for your model and confirmed that the backup or source data you need is available.
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Fix common transfer problems
- The phones will not pair: Update and restart the old phone, then try again with both devices nearby. Make sure you follow the prompts on both screens.
- Wireless transfer is not offered: Some older devices may not support it. Use a supported cable or a Google Account backup instead.
- The Pixel says “Try another cable”: Reconnect both ends and try a cable that supports data. Some cables charge a phone but cannot transfer files.
- The transfer stops partway through: Check the Pixel’s available storage and the Wi-Fi connection. On Pixel 9 and later, use the post-setup Android Switch option to add missing data.
- You are transferring from an older iPhone or using USB-A: Google says a Quick Switch Adapter may help with some older iPhone or USB-A cable combinations. For Android phones or newer iOS devices, Google says a USB-C to USB-C cable already owned or supplied with the phone can be used, where supported. See Google Pixel Phone Help: Use a Quick Switch Adapter.
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