How to Switch From iPhone to Android

This article explains how to switch from iPhone to Android, including transferring data and setting up apps. The directions below should apply no matter who made your Android phone: Samsung, Google, Huawei, Xiaomi, etc.

Use the Switch to Android App

Google and Apple have simplified the process of switching from iPhone to Android with the Switch to Android app. Download the Switch to Android app for iPhone and follow the instructions to automatically transfer your contacts, calendar, photos, and videos.

Alternatively, if you don't want everything to carry over from your old iPhone to your new Android, you can transfer your data manually by following the steps below.

Set Up Gmail and Sync Contacts and Calendar

Android smartphones require you to have a Gmail address. Aside from email, your Gmail address serves as a login for all Google services, including the Google Play Store. If you already have a Google account and have your Gmail contacts synced with your iPhone, you can log in, and your contacts will transfer to your new device. You can also transfer your contacts from iCloud by exporting them as a vCard, then importing them into Gmail, or sync your contacts from iTunes. 

Google Drive for iOS has a feature that lets you back up your contacts, calendar, and camera roll. It may take a few hours the first time you do it, but it'll save a lot of time switching to Android.

If you have email on other platforms, such as Yahoo or Outlook, you can set up those accounts using the Android Email app or the Gmail app.

Next, you want to sync your calendar with Gmail, if you haven't already, so you don't lose any appointments. You can do this easily in your iPhone settings. Google Calendar is also compatible with iOS devices, so you can still coordinate with other iOS users and access your calendar on an iPad.

Back Up Photos to Ease the iPhone to Android Transfer

The easiest way to move your photos from your iPhone to Android is to use the Google Photos app for iOS.

Sign in with your Gmail, tap the back up & sync option from the menu, download Google Photos on your Android, and sign in.

Transfer Your Music From iPhone to Android

If you’re an Apple Music user, you don’t have to quit—it’s available on Android (Apple’s first Android app). Sign in with your Apple ID, and you’re good to go. 

If you don't use Apple Music, you can import your music into another service such as Spotify or Amazon Music. In any case, it's always a good idea to regularly back up your music and other digital data.

Bye Bye iMessage, Hello Google Messages

If you've been using iMessage to communicate with friends and family, you'll have to find a replacement, as it's not available on Android.

Before you get rid of your iPhone or iPad, turn iMessage off so your messages don't continue getting redirected there if another iOS user texts you using your email address.

Go to Settings > Messages, and toggle iMessage off. If you've already ditched your iPhone, you can contact Apple and ask them to deregister your phone number with iMessage.

Google Messages is a suitable replacement for iMessage since it’s available on your smartphone and computer.

What to Do After Switching to Android

Android and iOS are very different, and there is a learning curve when switching between the two operating systems. You have to trade Siri for Google Assistant, but the virtual assistants work similarly. You may already use Google Assistant with a Google Home or other smart speaker.

Take some time to set up your new Android, play around with the phone’s settings, and back up your data regularly.

Play around with widgets for weather, fitness, news, and other apps, and consider personalizing your interface with an Android launcher.