To move data to a new Google Pixel, charge and unlock both phones, then follow the Pixel’s setup prompts to copy from your old Android phone or iPhone. Use a data-capable cable if you choose a wired transfer; wireless transfer is available for supported devices. If your old phone is unavailable, you can restore only data included in an existing Google Account backup.
Before you start
Transfer options and setup screens vary with the Pixel generation, the old phone and its operating system. Get both phones ready before beginning:
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- Charge both devices, keep them close together, and leave them turned on and unlocked during the transfer.
- Connect to a reliable Wi-Fi network. Have the old phone’s screen-lock code available.
- Install available updates on the old phone if practical, particularly when moving from an iPhone.
- Consider making a backup of the old phone first.
- If you plan to connect the phones, use a compatible cable that transfers data. Some charging cables do not carry data.
How do I transfer everything from my old phone to my new Google Pixel?
Start the Pixel and follow its setup prompts to copy data from your old phone. Choose a cable or wireless option when the setup flow offers one. The available steps depend on the Pixel model and the old phone, and a transfer is not guaranteed to copy every app or every category of content.
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Google’s transfer flow can copy supported categories such as contacts, calendars, messages, photos, videos, files and Play Store apps. On Pixel 8 and later, the setup flow can pair the old Android phone with the Pixel using a QR-assisted process, then transfer wirelessly or by cable where supported. Earlier Pixel models use a setup flow that includes “Copy apps & data”; Google’s instructions recommend a cable for that path, with Wi-Fi available when the sending phone and Pixel meet the applicable operating-system requirements.
#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]
- Turn on the new Pixel and begin its setup.
- When prompted, choose to copy apps and data from the old Android phone.
- Follow the on-screen pairing instructions. Depending on the devices, this may include scanning a QR code.
- Select a cable or wireless transfer if both are offered, then choose the data you want to copy.
- Keep both phones on, unlocked, nearby and connected until the Pixel says the transfer is complete.
On Pixel 9 and later, Google also supports adding transferred data after initial setup. If a transfer is interrupted on a newer Pixel, Android Switch may allow supported data to be transferred later. Apps can take time to download and appear after copying. If text messages are stored on the SIM card, move them to the old phone’s storage before starting.
Transfer from an iPhone
Before copying, turn off iMessage and FaceTime on the iPhone. Keep it unlocked, charged, turned on and up to date. Follow the Pixel setup prompts to choose the available cable, wireless or combined transfer method; options depend on the Pixel and iOS versions. Use a compatible data cable for a wired transfer.
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- 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]
- On the iPhone, turn off iMessage and FaceTime.
- Start Pixel setup and choose the option to copy data from an iPhone.
- Follow the pairing or cable instructions shown on the Pixel, then select the data to transfer.
- Keep both devices powered on and connected while the transfer runs.
- After setup, check messages, photos and important apps on the Pixel.
eSIM transfer depends on the carrier and devices involved; do not assume it will move automatically. Check with your carrier if you need to transfer or reactivate an eSIM.
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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 & 11Can I transfer data from Android to Pixel without a cable?
Yes, if the Pixel setup flow offers wireless transfer for the particular phone and operating-system combination. Follow the pairing prompts on both devices and keep them close, unlocked, powered and connected throughout. Wireless availability is device-dependent, so use the cable option if setup does not offer a compatible wireless path.
A cable is also optional for supported wired transfers, but it must carry data and have connectors that fit both phones. A cable that only charges devices will not work for copying data.
Will my iCloud photos transfer to Pixel?
Google’s described direct iPhone transfer copies photos stored locally on the iPhone; it does not necessarily bring over photos that exist only in iCloud. To bring cloud-only photos across, Google points users to download Google Photos on the iPhone and sync the library, or use Apple’s iCloud migration tool. Check that the photos you need are available through the chosen route before relying on the direct phone-to-phone transfer.
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]
What does not necessarily transfer?
Do not treat phone migration as a complete clone. Depending on the source phone and transfer method, some third-party app data, data from apps that do not use Android backup, non-Google accounts and their synced contacts or calendars, hidden or locked-folder content, and device-specific settings may not copy automatically.
- Open important apps on the Pixel and confirm that their data and sign-ins are present.
- Check chat histories such as WhatsApp separately and follow the app’s instructions for moving between your specific source phone and Pixel.
- Verify contacts and calendar entries tied to non-Google accounts, and add or sync those accounts as needed.
- Check hidden or locked folders separately if they contain items you need.
How do I restore data if my old phone is unavailable?
If a Google Account backup exists, connect the Pixel to Wi-Fi during setup, sign in to the same Google Account and choose the available backup to restore. On Pixel 9 and later, Google also documents restoring after setup through Settings and Android Switch. The restore can recover only content included in an existing backup; it cannot retrieve unbacked-up data from a lost or unusable phone.
Quick Recap
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- 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.
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- 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
What should I do if my phone transfer gets stuck?
- Check the cable: Make sure both ends are firmly connected. If the Pixel reports a cable problem, try a different cable that supports data, not just charging.
- Check any adapter: If one is needed for the old phone or cable, connect it to the Pixel as directed and confirm that the connectors are appropriate for both devices.
- Keep the connection steady: Charge both phones, leave them unlocked and near each other, and maintain Wi-Fi or the cable connection while copying.
- Check Pixel storage: A transfer can pause if the destination phone runs out of space. Free storage before trying again.
- Update and restart: If pairing fails or the old device is unsupported, install available system updates and restart it, then try again.
- Use the route available for your Pixel: A failed transfer during setup on some older Pixel paths may require restarting setup. Pixel 9 and later offer additional post-setup restore options. For device-specific connection recovery, follow Google’s instructions for the phones involved.
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