How to Transfer Data Between Phones with a USB-C to USB-C Cable

Transfer data between phones with a USB-C to USB-C cable by connecting both devices, accepting the USB prompt, selecting the required data, and keeping both phones unlocked until completion. The method is usually fastest for Android-to-Android transfers and can also transfer compatible data from iPhone to Android when the receiving phone supports cable import.

Steps

Prepare both phones. Charge both devices, update the operating systems, and remove screen locks temporarily if transfer prompts do not appear.
Connect the phones. Plug one end of the USB-C to USB-C cable into each phone. Use a certified data cable because some USB-C cables support charging only.
Select the transfer mode. On the source phone, choose File Transfer, Android Auto, or the matching data-sharing option. On the receiving phone, open the setup wizard or the built-in transfer tool.
Choose data and start. Select contacts, messages, photos, videos, apps, and files. Keep both devices connected, unlocked, and sufficiently charged until the transfer finishes.

Common Issues and Fixes

No transfer prompt appears: The cable may support charging only, or the USB mode may be incorrect. Replace the cable and select File Transfer from the USB notification.
Android-to-Android transfer stops: Low storage, outdated software, or a loose connection may interrupt the process. Free storage, update both phones, and reconnect the cable firmly.
Transfer data from iPhone to Android with cable fails: iPhone data may require an approved USB-C to Lightning cable, an adapter, or permission access. Unlock the iPhone, tap Trust, and approve every requested permission.
Move to iOS not working with cable: The transfer may be limited to the initial iPhone setup, or the Android app, cable, or operating system may be incompatible. Restart both phones, update software, use a certified cable, and retry during setup.
Some apps or files are missing: Platform restrictions prevent certain app data, passwords, DRM media, and iCloud-only content from transferring. Move unsupported content separately through cloud storage or account synchronization.

Quick Tips

A direct cable transfer usually avoids slower Wi-Fi congestion and is often the fastest way to transfer data between Android phones.
USB-C ports may have lint or physical damage. Clean ports carefully and test another data cable before changing transfer settings.
Keep the source phone above 30% battery. Large video libraries can take significant time and storage.
Encrypted messaging backups may require separate in-app restoration after the main phone transfer.

What is the fastest way to transfer data between Android phones?

A direct USB-C to USB-C connection is generally the fastest option for large photo, video, and file collections. Transfer speed still depends on cable quality, phone storage performance, and the amount of data.

Can an iPhone transfer all data to Android with a cable?

A cable can transfer many contacts, photos, videos, calendars, and selected files. Paid apps, passwords, iCloud-only data, and some message histories may require separate migration methods.