What to know

  • Google will extend the Pixel 9’s post-setup data copying feature to more Android phones in 2025, allowing users to transfer data at their convenience.
  • The new Android Switch experience makes data transfer 40% faster compared to 2023 when moving from iOS to Android via cable.
  • Users can initiate post-setup data transfers through Settings or the Android Switch app, which is now available on both iOS and Android platforms.

Google has revolutionized the way you transfer data between phones with a new feature that’s about to sweep across the Android ecosystem. Initially exclusive to the Pixel 9 series, the ability to copy data after initial device setup will become available to more Android phones in 2025.

The days of rushing through your phone setup to transfer all your data are coming to an end. You can now take your time to explore your new device first and move your data whenever you feel ready. The feature sits conveniently in the Settings app under “Back up or copy data,” giving you the flexibility to bring over your photos, contacts, messages, and more at your own pace.

When you decide to transfer your data, the process won’t overwrite your existing content – instead, it smoothly merges with what’s already on your new device. This means you won’t lose any new data you’ve created since setting up your phone.

The revamped Android Switch experience has also received a significant speed boost. If you’re switching from an iPhone, you’ll notice the cable transfer method is now 40% faster than it was in 2023. This improvement is particularly beneficial if you have large amounts of data to move between devices.

Images via 9to5Google

The transfer process covers everything from your chats and calendars to the nitty-gritty details like Wi-Fi passwords, screen lock settings, and Google account information. Google has also introduced an express setup option for Android-to-Android upgrades, which only transfers device-stored information, skipping cloud-backed data to save time.

With RCS messaging integration, you’ll maintain seamless communication capabilities, including high-resolution media sharing and emoji reactions, regardless of whether your contacts use Android or iOS devices.

This user-friendly approach to data transfer marks a significant step forward in making phone upgrades less stressful and more convenient for Android users worldwide.

Source: Google | Via: 9to5Google