How do i transfer all my contacts from one phone to another

How do i transfer all my contacts from one phone to another

Android gives you a few options for transferring your contacts to a new device. By default, everything should be synced when you set up a new device, but even if sync is disabled, it’s easy to move your contacts over.

The Easy Way: Sync With Your Google Account

Almost all Android devices sold outside of China come with Google services, including the ability to synchronize your contacts between devices. This should be enabled by default when you sign in with your Google account, but here’s how to make sure. We’re writing this guide using a Pixel 2 XL running Android 9.0, but it should look similar on other Android devices. We’re also using the stock Google Contacts apps, which you can download from the Play Store. These steps may not be the same on other Contact apps, so if you’re having issues, we recommend using Google Contacts.

Start by opening the Settings app and tapping “Accounts.”

How do i transfer all my contacts from one phone to another

Tap your Google account.

How do i transfer all my contacts from one phone to another

Tap “Account Sync.”

How do i transfer all my contacts from one phone to another

Ensure that the “Contacts” toggle is enabled. It must be on for your contacts to synchronize.

How do i transfer all my contacts from one phone to another

That’s it! Your existing contacts will synchronize with your Google account, and they’ll be there on any new Android phone you sign into.

The Manual Way: Backup and Restore the Contacts File

If your phone doesn’t offer Google services—or if you just want to copy things over yourself—you can back up a .vcf file that has all your contacts inside. Start by opening the Contacts app, then select the menu icon in the upper-left. Again, we’re using the Google Contacts app here.

How do i transfer all my contacts from one phone to another

Tap “Settings” on the menu.

How do i transfer all my contacts from one phone to another

Tap the “Export” option on the Settings screen.

How do i transfer all my contacts from one phone to another

Tap “Allow” on the permission prompt. This will give the Contacts app access to the photos, media, and files on your Android device.

How do i transfer all my contacts from one phone to another

Tap the “Save” button in the lower right.

How do i transfer all my contacts from one phone to another

You can move the .vcf file to your new phone by copying it to a USB drive, transferring it to a PC, or your favorite cloud service. When you get the file moved to the new phone, open the Contacts app again. Tap the menu icon in the upper-left.

How do i transfer all my contacts from one phone to another

Tap “Settings” on the menu.

How do i transfer all my contacts from one phone to another

Tap “Import” on the Settings screen.

How do i transfer all my contacts from one phone to another

Select “.vcf file” in the window that pops up.

How do i transfer all my contacts from one phone to another

Browse to the .vcf file from your previous phone and open it.

How do i transfer all my contacts from one phone to another

Your contacts will import to your new phone, and you can start calling and messaging your favorite people.

READ NEXT

  • › Microsoft Word Now Has Dark Mode on the Web
  • › Firefox 106 Is Here With “Firefox View” For Your Tabs
  • › Logitech Brio 500 Webcam Review: Flexible HDR Video Capture
  • › MagSafe Isn’t Just for iPhones: It’s Great on Android, Too
  • › Why Is It Called the Samsung “Galaxy”?
  • › How to Keep Your Internet Connection Going During Blackouts

How-To Geek is where you turn when you want experts to explain technology. Since we launched in 2006, our articles have been read more than 1 billion times. Want to know more?