How to Transfer Text Messages From an Old Phone to a New One

Key takeaways:

• Transferring text messages from an old phone to a new one is possible using various methods
• Using Google backup or iCloud is the easiest way to transfer messages between Android phones or iPhones respectively
• Third-party apps like SMS Backup & Restore can help transfer messages between different operating systems

Are you switching to a new phone but don’t want to lose all your important text messages? Transferring your SMS history from your old device to a new one may seem daunting, but it’s actually a straightforward process. In this article, we’ll guide you through various methods to move your text messages, whether you’re switching between Android phones, iPhones, or even from one operating system to another.

Using Google Backup (Android to Android)

If you’re moving from one Android phone to another, using Google backup is the easiest way to transfer your text messages. Here’s how:

1. On your old Android phone, go to Settings > Google > Backup.
2. Make sure “Back up to Google Drive” is turned on.
3. Tap “Back up now” to create a fresh backup of your data, including text messages.
4. When setting up your new Android phone, sign in with the same Google account.
5. During the setup process, choose to restore your data from the Google backup.

Your text messages will now appear on your new Android device.

Using iCloud (iPhone to iPhone)

For iPhone users, iCloud offers a seamless way to transfer text messages between devices. Follow these steps:

1. On your old iPhone, go to Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud.
2. Ensure “Messages” is toggled on under the “Apps Using iCloud” section.
3. Tap “iCloud Backup” and then “Back Up Now” to create a current backup.
4. When setting up your new iPhone, choose “Restore from iCloud Backup.”
5. Sign in with the same Apple ID and select the most recent backup.

Your text messages will be restored to your new iPhone once the setup is complete.

Third-Party Apps

If you’re switching between different operating systems, like Android to iPhone or vice versa, you’ll need to use a third-party app to transfer your text messages. One popular option is SMS Backup & Restore. Here’s how to use it:

1. On your old phone, download and install SMS Backup & Restore from the Google Play Store or App Store.
2. Open the app and tap “Backup.”
3. Choose where to save the backup file (e.g., Google Drive, Dropbox, or your device’s storage).
4. On your new phone, download and install SMS Backup & Restore.
5. Open the app and tap “Restore.”
6. Select the backup file you created earlier and wait for the restoration process to complete.

Your text messages will now be available on your new device, regardless of the operating system.

Using a USB Cable

Another way to transfer text messages is by connecting your old and new phones with a USB cable. This method works for both Android and iPhone devices. Here’s how:

1. Connect your old phone to your new phone using a USB-C to USB-C cable or a Lightning to USB-C cable, depending on your devices.
2. On your new phone, tap “Trust” when prompted to trust the connected device.
3. Follow the on-screen instructions to select the data you want to transfer, including text messages.
4. Wait for the transfer process to complete.

Your text messages will now be accessible on your new device.

Transferring Text Messages Manually

If you only need to transfer a few important text messages, you can do so manually by forwarding them to your new phone number or email address. This method is suitable for both Android and iPhone users. Here’s how:

1. On your old phone, open the Messages app.
2. Select the conversation containing the messages you want to transfer.
3. Tap and hold on a message, then choose “Forward” from the options.
4. Enter your new phone number or email address as the recipient.
5. Tap “Send.”

Repeat this process for each message you want to transfer. While this method is more time-consuming, it’s useful for selectively transferring important conversations.

Conclusion

Transferring text messages from an old phone to a new one is a crucial step when switching devices. By using Google backup, iCloud, third-party apps, USB cables, or manual forwarding, you can ensure that your important conversations are not lost in the transition. Choose the method that best suits your needs and follow the steps outlined in this article to make the process as smooth as possible.

FAQ

Can I transfer text messages from an Android phone to an iPhone?

Yes, you can use third-party apps like SMS Backup & Restore or iSMS2droid to transfer your text messages from an Android phone to an iPhone. These apps create a backup file that can be restored on your new iPhone.

Will my text messages transfer automatically when I set up my new phone?

If you’re using the same operating system (Android to Android or iPhone to iPhone) and have backup enabled on your old device, your text messages should transfer automatically during the setup process on your new phone.

Can I transfer text messages from an old phone that won’t turn on?

Unfortunately, if your old phone won’t turn on, you won’t be able to transfer your text messages directly from the device. However, if you have a previous backup of your data (e.g., Google backup or iCloud), you can restore your text messages from that backup to your new phone.

How long does it take to transfer text messages to a new phone?

The time it takes to transfer text messages depends on the method you use and the number of messages being transferred. Using Google backup or iCloud is usually the quickest option, while using third-party apps or manual forwarding may take longer.

Will transferring text messages also transfer my chat app conversations?

Transferring text messages using the methods outlined in this article will only move your SMS and MMS conversations. To transfer chat app conversations (e.g., WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger), you’ll need to follow the specific backup and restore procedures for each app.