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Samsung Smart Switch moves supported information from an old Android or iOS device to a Galaxy. You can transfer wirelessly, connect the phones with a cable, use a Windows PC or Mac, or use supported external storage. Samsung recommends a wired transfer in its US guidance when you want to move the broadest range of content, but the right route depends on your devices, connectors and what you need to bring across.
What Samsung Smart Switch transfers—and what it may not
Samsung describes Smart Switch as an app for moving information from an old device to a new Galaxy. Its listed categories include contacts, photos, videos, messages, apps and settings. The available content depends on the source device, destination device and transfer method; “supported” does not mean every item on the phone will move.
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In Samsung’s instructions for its Windows and Mac workflows, app data transfers from Galaxy devices only. Do not assume that an app’s files, saved progress, settings or account session will be copied from every Android or iPhone. Check whether important apps offer their own backup, cloud sync or migration process, and confirm you can sign in to them on the new phone.
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Samsung Newsroom describes the app this way: “Smart Switch is an app that helps you transfer your important information over from your old device to your new Galaxy phone.” That is Samsung’s description of its purpose, not a promise that every kind of data is transferable.
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Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra, Unlocked Android Smartphone, 512GB, Black | Privacy Display, Galaxy AI, AI Camera, Super Fast Charging 3.0, Durable Battery, 2026, US 1 Year Warranty
- PRIVACY DISPLAY: Automatically hide your screen from those beside you. The built-in privacy display can be preset¹ to turn on when receiving notifications, typing passwords, or using specific apps
- TYPE IT IN. TRANSFORM IT FAST: Enhance any shot in seconds on your smartphone by using Photo Assist² with Galaxy AI.³ Add objects, restore details, or apply new styles by simply typing or tapping
- NIGHTS, CAPTURED CLEARLY: From gigs to city lights, record and capture moments after dark with clarity using Nightography so your photos and videos stay crisp and clear on your Samsung Galaxy
- MAKE IT. EDIT IT. SHARE IT: Turn everyday moments into something personal with creative tools built right into your mobile phone, whether it’s a special contact photo, custom wallpaper, an invitation or more⁴
- HELP THAT KEEPS UP: Stay in the moment while Now Nudge with Galaxy AI helps you respond faster and stay organized with smart suggestions⁵ that appear exactly when you need them on your phone
Choose a transfer route
Samsung documents four broad options. Decide based on the specific devices and supported content, how much you need to move, whether you have a suitable data cable, and whether you want an intermediate backup.
| Route | When it makes sense | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| Wireless phone-to-phone | You want to connect the phones without a cable. | Confirm both devices support the wireless workflow and can connect as prompted by Smart Switch. |
| Wired phone-to-phone | You have a compatible cable and want Samsung’s recommended route for transferring the broadest range of content; Samsung Business also recommends it for large transfers. | Check both phones’ ports and use a data-capable cable. A charging-only cable may not support transfer. |
| Windows PC or Mac | You want to use Samsung’s computer software for transfer or backup workflows. | Install the appropriate Smart Switch software and check which content the computer workflow supports for your devices. |
| External storage | You want an intermediate backup or transfer through a microSD card or USB flash drive. | Confirm the phone supports the storage route, the connector or adapter fits, and the storage has enough capacity. |
These routes are not interchangeable in every setup. Samsung’s US support pages describe wired, wireless and external-storage methods, while its UK support page also covers computer use. Review Samsung’s instructions for your exact source and Galaxy before choosing a method.
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Samsung Galaxy A16 4G LTE (128GB + 4GB) International Model SM-A165F/DS Factory Unlocked, 6.7", Dual SIM, 50MP Triple Camera (Case Bundle), Black
- Please note, this device does not support E-SIM; This 4G model is compatible with all GSM networks worldwide outside of the U.S. In the US, ONLY compatible with T-Mobile and their MVNO's (Metro and Standup). It will NOT work with other CDMA carriers, and it is also not compatible with their MVNO (Visible, Xfinity Mobile, US Mobile, Cricket Wireless, etc).
- Compatibility with certain third-party devices and accessibility accessories, including some hearing aids, may vary depending on manufacturer support, Bluetooth protocols, software compatibility, and regional firmware limitations. For additional hearing aid compatibility information, please refer to Samsung’s official support documentation.
- Camera: 50 MP, f/1.8, (wide), 1/2.76", 0.64µm, AF | 50 MP, f/1.8, (wide), 1/2.76", 0.64µm, AF | 2 MP, f/2.4, (macro). Battery: 5000 mAh, non-removable | A power adapter is NOT included.
Prepare both devices before transferring
- Check compatibility: Samsung UK lists Android 4.3 or later for certain wireless and wired routes and describes requirements for wired iOS transfers. That page was updated December 21, 2022, so treat its requirements as route-specific and dated; check current guidance for your particular phone and software.
- Keep the phones charged: Samsung Business’s February 2024 guidance recommends at least 20% battery on each device before starting. This is preparation advice, not a guarantee that a transfer will finish on a particular charge.
- For an iPhone move, prepare Apple services: Samsung Business advises backing up to iCloud, deregistering iMessage and having your Apple account credentials available.
- Wait to move the SIM: Samsung Business advises waiting until the transfer finishes before switching the SIM.
- Check app-specific data: Make sure important information is backed up or synced through the app’s own process, especially when moving from iOS or a non-Galaxy Android phone.
- Check cables and storage: Verify that a cable supports data and fits both devices. For external storage, verify device support, connector or adapter compatibility and capacity before relying on it.
Transfer content to your new Galaxy
- Choose the route. Open Samsung’s Smart Switch transfer instructions and follow the steps for wireless, cable or supported external storage. For a computer workflow, use Samsung’s Windows or Mac instructions.
- Connect or prepare the devices. For a cable transfer, connect the phones with a compatible data cable. For wireless transfer, follow Smart Switch’s pairing prompts. For a computer or external-storage workflow, prepare the software or storage device specified by Samsung.
- Select the content available for your setup. Review the categories Smart Switch presents rather than assuming the phone will be cloned in full. Leave time to handle app data separately if needed.
- Keep the devices available until the transfer completes. Follow the on-screen status and any prompts on either phone. Do not disconnect a cable or storage device while a transfer is in progress.
- Check the Galaxy afterward. Open the key contacts, photos, messages and other transferred items, then sign in to important apps and verify their data. Restore anything missing using that app’s own backup or migration option.
What to know about newer iPhone-to-Galaxy setup
Samsung Newsroom reported on September 16, 2026, that an iPhone user setting up the described eighth-generation Galaxy Z series with One UI 9 can scan a QR code on the new Galaxy to begin without installing Smart Switch on the iPhone. This is a specific setup, not a general requirement-free method for every Galaxy model or software version. Check Samsung’s current instructions for the destination phone before relying on it.
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Samsung Galaxy S26, Unlocked Android Smartphone, 256GB, Black | Powerful Processor, Galaxy AI, Immersive Viewing, Durable Battery, 2026, US 1 Year Warranty
- TYPE IT IN. TRANSFORM IT FAST: Enhance any shot in seconds on your smartphone by using Photo Assist¹ with Galaxy AI.² Add objects, restore details, or apply new styles by simply typing or tapping
- MAKE IT. EDIT IT. SHARE IT: Turn everyday moments into something personal with creative tools built right into your mobile whether it’s a special contact photo, custom wallpaper, an invitation or more³
- FAST. POWERFUL. AI-READY: Power through your day with AI-accelerated performance from our fastest, smoothest and most powerful Galaxy processor yet, built to keep up with everything you do
- IMMENSELY IMMERSIVE: No matter where you are or what you’re watching, your favorite videos and more come to life with the vibrant display on Galaxy S26
- FIT EVERYONE IN THE SHOT: Group selfies are easier on your Samsung phone with a wider front camera⁴ that captures more of the scene, so no one gets left out of the moment
Rank #4
Samsung Galaxy A17 5G Smart Phone 128GB, US 1 Yr Manufacturer Warranty Blue | Large AMOLED, High-Res Camera, Durable Design, Super Fast Charging, Expandable Storage, Circle to Search, 2025
- YOUR CONTENT, SUPER SMOOTH: The ultra-clear 6.7" FHD+ Super AMOLED display of Galaxy A17 5G helps bring your content to life, whether you're scrolling through recipes or video chatting with loved ones.¹
- LIVE FAST. CHARGE FASTER: Focus more on the moment and less on your battery percentage with Galaxy A17 5G. Super Fast Charging powers up your battery so you can get back to life sooner.²
- MEMORIES MADE PICTURE PERFECT: Capture every angle in stunning clarity, from wide family photos to close-ups of friends, with the triple-lens camera on Galaxy A17 5G.
- NEED MORE STORAGE? WE HAVE YOU COVERED: With an improved 2TB of expandable storage, Galaxy A17 5G makes it easy to keep cherished photos, videos and important files readily accessible whenever you need them.³
- BUILT TO LAST: With an improved IP54 rating, Galaxy A17 5G is even more durable than before.⁴ It’s built to resist splashes and dust and comes with a stronger yet slimmer Gorilla Glass Victus front and Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer back.
Rank #3
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Samsung Galaxy A17 5G Smart Phone 128GB US 1 Yr Manufacturer Warranty Black | Large AMOLED, High-Res Camera, Durable Design, Super Fast Charging, Expandable Storage, Circle to Search, 2025
- YOUR CONTENT, SUPER SMOOTH: The ultra-clear 6.7" FHD+ Super AMOLED display of Galaxy A17 5G helps bring your content to life, whether you're scrolling through recipes or video chatting with loved ones.¹
- LIVE FAST. CHARGE FASTER: Focus more on the moment and less on your battery percentage with Galaxy A17 5G. Super Fast Charging powers up your battery so you can get back to life sooner.²
- MEMORIES MADE PICTURE PERFECT: Capture every angle in stunning clarity, from wide family photos to close-ups of friends, with the triple-lens camera on Galaxy A17 5G.
- NEED MORE STORAGE? WE HAVE YOU COVERED: With an improved 2TB of expandable storage, Galaxy A17 5G makes it easy to keep cherished photos, videos and important files readily accessible whenever you need them.³
- BUILT TO LAST: With an improved IP54 rating, Galaxy A17 5G is even more durable than before.⁴ It’s built to resist splashes and dust and comes with a stronger yet slimmer Gorilla Glass Victus front and Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer back.
If something does not transfer
- A category is absent: It may not be supported for that source, destination or route. Check Samsung’s instructions for the exact device pair and use the original app’s backup or export option where available.
- The phones will not connect by cable: Confirm that the cable supports data, fits both ports and is connected securely. If a port requires an adapter, check its compatibility; otherwise, follow Samsung’s wireless or computer instructions.
- External storage is not recognized: Verify that the Galaxy supports the selected microSD or USB storage route and that the connector or adapter is suitable. Samsung’s instructions do not make external storage universal across devices.
- An app opens without its old data or login: Smart Switch does not promise a complete copy of every app’s private data or credentials. Use the app’s own sync, backup or account recovery process.
Official Samsung instructions
- Samsung US: Transfer content with Samsung Smart Switch
- Samsung US: Transfer data to a new phone using Smart Switch for Windows or Mac
- Samsung UK: Samsung Smart Switch
- Samsung Business Insights: How to transfer content to your new Galaxy device
- Samsung Newsroom: Smart Switch and the described Galaxy Z setup
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