How to use Move to iOS to switch from Android to iPhone

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting.

7-10 min read

Expert Verified

Last Updated: August 2025

Quick Answer

The 'Move to iOS' app allows users to seamlessly transfer data from an Android device to an iPhone. This guide provides detailed steps on how to utilize this app effectively, ensuring a smooth transition.

Easy⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before starting the data transfer process, ensure you meet the following requirements:

•iPhone running iOS 9 or later.
•Android device running Android 4.0 or later.
•Both devices must be connected to Wi-Fi.
•Sufficient battery life on both devices (preferably above 50%).
•The 'Move to iOS' app installed on the Android device (available on Google Play Store).
•Important data to backup first: Contacts, photos, videos, and any important documents.

Method 1: Using the Move to iOS App

This method is the primary and most straightforward way to transfer data from Android to iPhone using the 'Move to iOS' app.

•Step 1: On your new iPhone, begin the setup process. When you reach the 'Apps & Data' screen, select 'Move Data from Android'.
•Step 2: On your Android device, download and open the 'Move to iOS' app from the Google Play Store.
•Step 3: Tap 'Continue' on both devices. On the iPhone, a 6-10 digit code will appear.
•Step 4: Enter the code on your Android device to establish a connection.
•Step 5: Select the data you wish to transfer (contacts, message history, photos, etc.) and tap 'Next'.
•Step 6: Wait for the transfer process to complete, then tap 'Done' on your Android device and 'Continue Setting Up iPhone' on your iPhone.
•Step 7: Verify that your data has been transferred successfully by checking the respective apps on your iPhone.

For Windows 11

If you are using Windows 11 to download the 'Move to iOS' app, follow these steps:

•Open Microsoft Store from the Start Menu.
•Search for 'Move to iOS' and click 'Get' to download the app.

For Windows 10

For Windows 10 users, the process is similar:

•Open Microsoft Store from the Start Menu.
•Search for 'Move to iOS' and click 'Install' to download the app.

Method 2: Manual Transfer

If the 'Move to iOS' app is not an option, you can manually transfer data using Google services and iCloud.

•Step 1: On your Android device, ensure that all contacts are synced to your Google account.
•Step 2: On your iPhone, go to 'Settings' > 'Mail' > 'Accounts' > 'Add Account'. Choose 'Google' and sign in with your Google account.
•Step 3: Enable the toggle for 'Contacts' to sync your contacts to your iPhone.
•Step 4: For photos, download Google Photos on your Android device, upload your photos, then install Google Photos on your iPhone to access them.
•Step 5: For messages, consider using third-party apps like 'SMS Backup & Restore' to save your messages and then transfer them to your iPhone.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter issues during the transfer process, consider the following solutions:

•Error: 'Unable to connect' - Solution: Ensure both devices are on the same Wi-Fi network and try restarting both devices.
•Issue: 'Transfer interrupted' - Fix: Check your Wi-Fi connection and ensure both devices have sufficient battery life.
•Problem: 'Data not transferring' - Workaround: Try transferring data in smaller batches or use the manual transfer method.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

Enhance your data transfer experience with these tips:

•Keyboard shortcut: 'Ctrl + C' and 'Ctrl + V' - Use these to copy and paste data if transferring manually.
•Command line: Use 'adb pull' to extract data from your Android device if you're familiar with ADB commands.
•Hidden feature: Use 'iCloud Drive' to store files temporarily and access them on your iPhone.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

The best approach is to use the 'Move to iOS' app for a seamless transfer, as it is designed specifically for this purpose and minimizes data loss.