Upgrading to a new phone feels exciting until you remember the tedious process of reinstalling dozens of apps and reconfiguring settings. Fortunately, learning how to transfer apps to new phone has become remarkably streamlined on both iOS and Android platforms
Having guided thousands through device migrations over two decades, I’ve refined the process to minimize downtime and data loss. Whether you’re switching within the same platform or jumping ecosystems, these methods ensure smooth transitions
iPhone to iPhone Transfer Methods
Apple’s ecosystem makes same-platform transfers effortless. During new iPhone setup, select “Transfer from iPhone” when prompted. Position your old device near the new one, and iOS wirelessly transfers apps, settings, photos, and data directly. All your iPhone widgets and hidden iPhone apps transfer automatically
Alternatively, use iCloud backup before switching devices. On your old iPhone, navigate to Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud > iCloud Backup and create a fresh backup. During new iPhone setup, choose “Restore from iCloud Backup” and sign in
For users preferring wired connections, iTunes backup on Mac or PC provides the most comprehensive transfer option. This method is particularly important when transferring apps to new phone if you have large game files from offline iPhone game
Android to Android Transfer Process
Google’s migration tools have improved dramatically. Most Android manufacturers include proprietary transfer apps—Samsung Smart Switch, OnePlus Switch, and Xiaomi Mi Mover offer excellent one-tap migration experiences
For cross-manufacturer Android switches, Google Drive backup handles the heavy lifting. On your old device, ensure apps and settings backup is enabled in Settings > Google > Backup. This automatically includes your Android exclusive apps and small storage games
Cable transfer using USB-C to USB-C connections provides the fastest Android migration method. Many manufacturers now include cables specifically for this purpose, transferring gigabytes in minutes rather than hours over Wi-Fi
Cross-Platform Migrations Require Extra Steps
Switching from iPhone to Android or vice versa eliminates direct app transfers since platforms use different ecosystems. However, your data remains portable through cloud services
Apple provides Move to iOS app for Android users switching to iPhone. Install it on your Android device before setup, then follow prompts during iPhone initialization
Android users receiving iPhones should manually list essential apps. Most popular apps maintain versions on both platforms—WhatsApp, Spotify, Netflix, and major productivity tools like Notion sync data across platforms through cloud accounts
App-Specific Data Transfer Considerations
While operating systems handle app installation, individual app data requires attention. Cloud-connected services typically sync automatically when you sign in on your new device
Gaming apps present challenges. Many mobile games lack cross-device save functionality. Before switching phones, check if your games support cloud saves through Game Center (iOS) or Google Play Games (Android)
For games that pay real money, ensure you’ve linked accounts to email or social profiles before migration. Most reward-based games require account verification to preserve earnings
Banking and authentication apps require special handling. Two-factor authentication apps like Google Authenticator need manual migration—use backup codes or switch to apps offering cloud sync like Authy before transferring
Post-Transfer Optimization When You Transfer Apps to New Phone
After successfully learning how to transfer apps to new phone, spend time organizing. Delete unused apps that accumulated on your old device, rearrange your home screen thoughtfully, and update apps to latest versions optimized for your new hardware
Take advantage of your fresh start by implementing better organization strategies. Check our guide on managing background apps to optimize your new device’s performance from day one
Modern smartphones make migration painless when you follow platform-specific tools. Cloud backup solutions mean you’ll never lose critical data, and most apps transfer seamlessly within ecosystems
Before selling or trading your old device, ensure you’ve captured everything important. Consider which apps you actually need—this is an opportunity to free up storage space on your new phone by not transferring bloatware
Platform-Specific Transfer Resources:
- iOS Data Transfer Guide – Official Apple documentation
- Android Switch Guide – Google’s official help
- Samsung Smart Switch – Samsung’s proprietary tool
Related Articles:
- Free Up Storage Space on iPhone – Optimize before transfer
- When Apps Go on Sale – Rebuild your app library affordably
- Apps That Work Offline – Essential downloads for new devices