If you are switching from Android to iPhone in 2025 you might be asking yourself one big question: how to transfer data from Android to iPhone easily. You do not want to lose your photos messages contacts apps or any of your personal settings. The good news is that Apple made this process way smoother than it used to be. And in this complete guide I will walk you through every single method that actually works in 2025 so you can make the switch without any headaches.
Whether you are moving from a Samsung a Pixel or any other Android phone to the latest iPhone this step-by-step tutorial has got you covered. I will show you the official Apple way the best third-party apps and even some hidden tricks that most people do not know about. Let us get started.
Why Transferring from Android to iPhone Feels Tricky
Android and iOS are built on completely different systems. They do not talk to each other the way two iPhones would. That is why moving your data is not as simple as just copying files. But do not worry Apple knows this and created a special app to help you out. Still many users end up frustrated because they either use the wrong method or miss a few key steps.
In 2025 the process is better than ever but only if you know what you are doing. That is exactly why I put together this guide. No fluff no outdated tips just real working solutions.
The 3 Best Ways to Transfer Data from Android to iPhone in 2025
There is not just one way to do this. Depending on your needs and the type of data you want to move you might prefer one method over another. Here are the top three options that work right now.
- Using Apple’s Move to iOS App (Official and Free)
- Using Google Drive for Photos Contacts and Files
- Using Third-Party Apps Like SHAREit or Samsung Smart Switch
Let us break each one down so you can pick the best one for your situation.
Method 1: Move to iOS – Apple’s Official Tool (Best for First-Time Switchers)
This is the safest and easiest way if you are transferring right after setting up your new iPhone. Apple designed the Move to iOS app to handle most of your data during setup. It works over a private Wi-Fi connection so your info stays secure.
What You Can Transfer with Move to iOS
| Data Type | Supported |
|---|---|
| Contacts | Yes |
| Message History (SMS) | Yes |
| Photos and Videos | Yes |
| Web Bookmarks | Yes |
| Mail Accounts | Limited |
| Calendars | Yes |
| Free Apps | Yes (if available on iOS) |
| App Data | No |
Step-by-Step: How to Use Move to iOS in 2025
- Make sure your Android phone is charged and connected to Wi-Fi
- Download the Move to iOS app from the Google Play Store
- Start setting up your new iPhone until you reach the Apps & Data screen
- Select Move Data from Android
- Open the Move to iOS app on your Android phone and tap Continue
- Wait for a six or ten-digit code to appear on your iPhone then enter it on your Android
- Select the data you want to transfer like photos messages and contacts
- Wait for the transfer to finish (this can take 30 minutes to a few hours)
- Finish setting up your iPhone and your data will be there
Pro Tip: Do not close the app or lock your phone during the transfer. If the connection drops you will have to start over.
When to Use This Method
Use Move to iOS if you are setting up a brand new iPhone and want to bring over your basic data. It is perfect for most users who just want their photos messages and contacts in place.
Method 2: Google Drive and iCloud – Best for Ongoing Transfers
If you already set up your iPhone or want more control over what gets moved this method gives you full flexibility. You can transfer data in chunks and even keep syncing some things between devices.
Step 1: Back Up Your Android Data to Google
- Go to Settings > Google > Backup
- Turn on Backup to Google Drive
- Make sure Photos Videos Contacts Calendar and Drive files are included
- Run a manual backup to make sure everything is saved
Step 2: Restore Data to Your iPhone
Now that your data is in the cloud you can pull it into your iPhone one by one.
Photos and Videos
Download the Google Photos app on your iPhone sign in and all your media will start syncing. You can also download them in full quality and save them to your iPhone Photos app.
Contacts
On your iPhone go to Settings > Contacts > Accounts > Add Account > Google. Sign in and turn on Contacts sync. Your Android contacts will appear in your iPhone in minutes.
Calendar
Same process go to Settings > Calendar > Accounts > Add Google Account and turn on Calendar sync.
Files and Documents
Use the Google Drive app to access any files you saved. You can also set it to auto-sync important folders.
Pros and Cons of Using Google Drive
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| You do not need both phones at the same time | Takes longer since it is not a one-time transfer |
| Keeps your data backed up long-term | Messages and app data are not transferred |
| Free and works with any Android or iPhone | Requires good internet connection |
Method 3: Third-Party Apps – Best for Large Transfers or No Wi-Fi
Sometimes you just need to move a ton of data fast and without relying on the cloud. That is where third-party tools come in. These apps create a direct link between your phones using Wi-Fi Direct or a cable.
Top 3 Third-Party Apps in 2025
| App Name | What It Transfers | Speed | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| SHAREit | Photos Videos Apps Contacts Files | Very Fast (Wi-Fi Direct) | Free with ads |
| Samsung Smart Switch | Photos Messages Contacts Settings (for Samsung only) | Fast | Free |
| Send Anywhere | Files Photos Videos up to 10 GB | Fast | Free for small files |
How to Use SHAREit to Move Data
- Install SHAREit on both your Android and iPhone
- Open the app on both devices
- On Android tap Send then select the files you want to move
- On iPhone tap Receive and wait for the connection code
- Enter the code on Android and start the transfer
- Files will be saved to your iPhone Files app
Expert Tip: Tech blogger Lisa Tran says “For users moving from Samsung I always recommend Smart Switch. It preserves more settings and even moves your wallpaper and app layout.”
What Data You Cannot Transfer (And What to Do Instead)
Not everything can be moved. Here is what you will lose and how to handle it.
- App Data: Game progress login sessions and app settings do not transfer. You will need to log back in or start fresh.
- WhatsApp Chats: You can move them but it requires a separate process using WhatsApp’s built-in transfer tool. Make sure to back up your chat on Android first.
- Text Message Formatting: Some emojis or group chat details might not look the same on iPhone.
- Some App Files: Files stored in app-specific folders may not move unless you export them manually.
Pro Tips to Make the Switch Smoother
- Charge both phones to at least 50 before starting
- Use a strong Wi-Fi network or hotspot for faster transfers
- Turn off battery saver mode on both devices
- Do not use your phones during the transfer to avoid disconnects
- Check your iPhone storage before transferring – large photo libraries can fill it up fast
Which Method Should You Choose
Here is a quick decision guide based on your situation.
| If You Are | Recommended Method |
|---|---|
| Setting up a new iPhone for the first time | Move to iOS |
| Already using your iPhone and want to sync data | Google Drive + iCloud |
| Moving from Samsung Galaxy | Samsung Smart Switch |
| Transferring large files without Wi-Fi | SHAREit or Send Anywhere |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
I have seen so many people mess up their transfer by making simple errors. Do not be one of them.
- Starting the transfer without enough battery
- Using a weak Wi-Fi signal that drops mid-transfer
- Not checking what data was actually moved
- Trying to use Bluetooth – it is way too slow for this
- Forgetting to back up WhatsApp or Instagram data separately
Final Thoughts
Moving from Android to iPhone does not have to be stressful. In 2025 you have more options than ever to transfer your data safely and easily. The key is to pick the right method for your situation and follow the steps carefully.
If you are just starting out go with Move to iOS. If you want more control use Google services. And if you need speed and flexibility try a third-party app. No matter what you do your photos messages and contacts can come with you.
Take your time do not rush the process and double-check that everything moved over. Once you are done you will be amazed at how smooth the iPhone experience can be.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I transfer WhatsApp messages from Android to iPhone
Yes but not through Move to iOS. You need to use WhatsApp’s built-in chat transfer tool. Back up your chats on Android then during WhatsApp setup on iPhone choose Restore from Android. It works in 2025 but can take a while.
Does Move to iOS work with all Android phones
Yes it works with any Android phone running Android 5.0 or higher. However Samsung users might get a better experience using Smart Switch for more detailed transfers.
Why is my transfer taking so long
Large photo libraries or weak Wi-Fi can slow things down. Make sure both phones are close to the router and not running other apps. A transfer with 5000 photos can take 1 to 2 hours.
Can I transfer apps from Android to iPhone
You cannot transfer the apps themselves but the Move to iOS app will show you which ones have iOS versions and let you download them for free. Paid apps are not refunded.
What if the transfer fails
If it fails restart both phones try again with a strong Wi-Fi connection. If it keeps failing use Google Drive to move your photos contacts and files manually. It is slower but more reliable.
If you found this guide helpful share it with someone who is switching phones. And let me know in the comments which method worked best for you.