Open in MobileTrans
Open in MobileTrans

How to Transfer Data from Android to iPhone

Axel Nash
Axel Nash Originally published Aug 28, 24, updated Nov 06, 25

Looking for the best way to transfer data from Android to iPhone in 2025? Whether you're making an Android to iPhone data transfer for the first time or upgrading to the latest iPhone 17, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need. We'll show you 5 proven methods to transfer from Android to iPhone, including FREE options that handle contacts, photos, messages, WhatsApp, and apps. Discover how to transfer data from Android to iPhone without losing any information, with clear, step-by-step instructions for each method.

Quoted from YouTube partner channel
Quick Navigation: Android to iPhone Transfer Guide
    1. MobileTrans(Recommended)
    2. Move to iOS(Official Apple)
    3. With iTunes(Media Files)
    4. Google Drive (Cloud)
    5. Email (Small Files)

Part 1: Methods Comparison Table

How to transfer data from Android to iPhone? The problem can seem daunting for those who want to know how to do so, but several effective methods simplify the process. Among the most popular are MobileTrans, the Move to iOS app, iTunes, Google Drive, and using a Google Account or Mail. Each method offers unique features and capabilities, enabling users to efficiently transfer various data types, including contacts, photos, and app information.

Compare all 5 methods to find the best Android to iPhone data transfer solution for your needs:

Data Type 🏆 MobileTrans Move to iOS iTunes Google Drive Email
Contacts ✅ Yes ✅ Yes ❌ No ✅ Yes ✅ Yes
Photos/Videos ✅ All formats ✅ Yes ✅ Limited ✅ Yes ⚠️ Small files
WhatsApp Chats ✅ Full history ✅ Yes ❌ No ❌ No ❌ No
Apps & Settings ✅ Yes ✅ Yes ❌ No ❌ No ❌ No
Text Messages ✅ SMS/MMS ✅ Yes ❌ No ⚠️ Manual ❌ No
💰 Cost Free trial Free Free Free (15GB) Free
⏱️ Transfer Speed 5-10 mins 15-30 mins 20-40 mins 30-60 mins Varies
📱 Setup Required No reset Must reset iPhone Computer needed Manual setup None

When discussing the types of data transferable with these methods, MobileTrans excels in transferring a wide range of data, including WhatsApp chat history, playlists, and more. Move to iOS focuses on essential items, such as contacts, messages, and photos. Meanwhile, iTunes primarily handles media and backups, while Google Drive and Google Account facilitate the transfer of photos, documents, and contacts. Mail can be used to share specific files, but it is not as comprehensive.

Regarding data management, MobileTrans allows users to select specific items for transfer and merge them with existing data. The Move to iOS app also facilitates the transfer, requiring a factory reset on your new iPhone and overwriting existing data. Comparing all the methods above, we recommend MobileTrans as your first choice because it can handle almost all the situations you might encounter and offers various solutions to meet your needs.

Part 2: 5 Methods to Transfer Data from Android to iPhone

Several methods exist for transferring data from an Android phone to an iPhone. Users should follow the steps of the methods carefully to ensure they transfer their data effectively. Here are some of the most effective methods:

Method 1: Transfer Data from Android to iPhone with MobileTrans [Best for WhatsApp & All Data Types]

MobileTrans simplifies the Android-to-iOS data transfer process, making it the top choice for users seeking a comprehensive Android-to-iPhone transfer solution that works with the latest iPhone models and iOS versions. The app is designed to maintain data quality, ensuring your photos, videos, contacts, and other media retain their original format and resolution.

Furthermore, MobileTrans App supports various data types and provides a secure environment for transferring sensitive information, making it a trustworthy choice for users concerned about privacy during the transition.

MobileTrans App

Transfer Photos, Videos, Messages, Contacts and More with 1-Click!hot

  • • Transfer up to 10+ types of phone data between devices.
  • • Transfer large files between phone, PC, and tablet.
  • • No cellular data usage & no cable is required.
  • • Encrypted data transfer and no third-party server storage for privacy.
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or Try our MobileTrans App on mobile >>>

Here's how to transfer data from Android to iPhone with the MobileTrans App:

  • Select Transfer Direction: Tab Android to iPhone as your transfer direction. Tab Basic data on both of your phones.
    select transfer direction
  • Choose Data Types: The next step is to choose which data types you want to move. This could include contacts, messages, photos, videos, and other file formats the transfer app supports.
    choose data to transfer
  • Connect Devices: Thirdly, connect the two devices. Scan the QR code displayed on it with your old phone after giving your permission to the MobileTrans app.
    connect both phones
  • Begin Transfer: Once you've selected your data, initiate the transfer process and let the app handle the rest. Don't disconnect either device until the transfer is finished.
data received successfully notification

You can also use MobileTrans on your PC. Download and launch it, then select the phone-to-phone feature. The desktop version offers more features than the app version, including phone backup and restore.

mobiletrans desktop
Pros
  • Transfers WhatsApp, contacts, photos, videos, SMS, etc.
  • Supports selective transfer
  • No reset required
  • Works with different brands
Cons
  • Paid software

Method 2: Move to iOS(Official Apple)

Move to iOS is designed to help users transition smoothly between an Android and an iPhone, minimizing the hassle typically associated with switching devices. With a user-friendly interface, Move to iOS enables the secure transfer of your contacts, messages, photos, and more during the initial setup of your new iPhone. Whether you're moving everything or just a selection of data, this method ensures that nothing is left behind.

  • Install the app: Download the Move to iOS app from the Google Play Store on your Android device.
    installing move to ios
  • Setup: Select the option to Transfer Data from Android during the iPhone setup process.
  • Open Move to iOS: Open the Move to iOS app on your Android device, agree to the terms, and tap Continue.
    clicking continue
  • Start Transfer: Open the Android app and enter the code displayed on your iPhone. Then select the data types you want to transfer and tap Next. Wait for the transfer to complete.

If you encounter issues, check our Move to iOS troubleshooting guide or explore Move to iOS alternatives.

Pros
  • Official Apple app
  • Supports WhatsApp (in supported cases)
  • User-friendly for first-time setup
Cons
  • Only works during iPhone setu
  • Limited data types
  • May fail on weak Wi-Fi

Method 3: With iTunes(Media Files)

If you prefer a more traditional approach to moving from Android to iOS, using iTunes could be the ideal solution. This method allows you to manually manage your media, offering flexibility in selecting which files are transferred. iTunes serves as a bridge that facilitates file synchronization, making it easy to enjoy your music, videos, and photos on your iPhone.

  • Install iTunes: Install the latest version of iTunes on your computer.
    installing itunes on computer
  • Connect Devices: Connect your Android device to your computer and transfer the desired files (photos, music, etc.) to your computer. Once files are on your computer, connect your iPhone to the computer and open iTunes.
  • Sync Data: Use iTunes to sync the transferred files to your iPhone by selecting your device, dragging the files into the iTunes interface, and clicking Sync.
sync button in itunes
Pros
  • Can back up and restore some data types
  • Free tool from Appley
  • Useful for media files
Cons
  • Does not support Android directly
  • No WhatsApp/message transfer
  • Complicated steps

Method 4: Google Drive (Cloud)

For those who rely heavily on cloud services, using Google Drive can be an efficient way to move data from an Android device to an iPhone. This approach is handy for individuals with specific types of data, such as contacts, calendars, and photos, as it eliminates the need for physical connections. Once you've set up Google Drive on your iPhone, you can quickly access and download your files anytime.

  • Upload Files to Google Drive: Install Google Drive on your Android device and sign in with your Google account. Upload the files (photos, videos, documents) you want to transfer to Google Drive.
    uploading file in google drive
  • Download from Google Drive: Download and install the Google Drive app from the App Store on your iPhone. Sign in with the same Google account, and you'll have access to the files uploaded from your Android device.

Apart from upload data to Google with Google Drive app, you can also sync everything to your Google account with Settings. Using your Google account to transfer data from Android to iPhone takes advantage of your Google account's sync capabilities to ensure that your vital data is seamlessly integrated into your iPhone's apps. Though it needs internet connection and might be time consuming, you can pull all your important information by merely signing in to your existing Google account from your iPhone. This approach provides the convenience of synchronizing your data across multiple devices.

  • Sync Data to Google Account: On your Android, go to Settings > Accounts and ensure your data (contacts, calendar, etc.) is synced with your Google account.
  • Login Google Account on iPhone: On your iPhone, go to Settings > Mail > Accounts > Add Account and choose Google.
    clicking the add account button
  • Sync Data from Google: Sign in with your Google account and select the data you wish to sync. The selected data will now sync to your iPhone.
Pros
  • Free cloud-based option
  • Syncs contacts, calendar, and photos
  • Accessible across devices
Cons
  • Manual setup required
  • Not for messages or app data
  • Slow for large files

Method 5: Email (Small Files)

For those who want to learn how to export from Android to iPhone, using email is a straightforward method that many people may overlook. This approach can be particularly beneficial for transferring a few essential documents or photos without additional apps or software. This method is simple yet effective for those who prefer to transfer data without delving into complicated setups.

  • Share Files with Email: Open the app on your Android device where your files (photos, documents) are stored. Use the share feature to email the desired files to yourself.
    sharing files via email
  • Download from Email: On your iPhone, open your email app and access the email you sent to yourself. Download the attachments from the email to your iPhone by tapping on each file and selecting Download or Save.
Pros
  • Easiest for sending individual files
  • No app needed
  • Platform-independentg
Cons
  • Not suitable for bulk transfer
  • Cannot transfer apps, messages, or settings

Part 3: Common Concerns When Transferring Data from Android to iPhone

transfer data from android to iphone

There are some common concerns when transferring data from an Android phone to an iPhone. Users should keep these concerns in mind when transferring data from Android to iPhone to ensure that they do not face any problems.

  • Data Compromise

Users must be aware of the potential for data compromise if sensitive information is intercepted through unsecured networks or inadequately protected apps. Malicious software or hacking attempts can also pose a risk, particularly if the device is connected to unknown or unsafe Wi-Fi networks. It is crucial for users to ensure that all transfer methods are secure to mitigate the risk of unauthorized access to their personal information.

  • Operation Complexity

Transferring data between an Android and an iPhone can be quite complex, making it daunting for many users. The steps involved may vary significantly depending on the specific models and operating systems, leading to confusion and potential errors. Users may spend a long time navigating the transfer process, especially if they encounter unexpected issues.

  • Data Loss

Important files, contacts, and multimedia content may not successfully migrate, leading to the accidental loss of valuable information. This risk can be heightened by incomplete backups or insufficient storage on the new device. Users must be prepared for the possibility that not all data will be transferred, which can lead to frustration and inconvenience in re-establishing the lost information.

  • Compatibility Issues

Incompatibility between file formats and applications can create significant hurdles during the data transfer. Certain apps or data types from Android may not have direct equivalents on iOS, rendering them unusable after the transfer. This may particularly affect users who rely on specific applications for work or personal use, creating gaps in functionality. As a result, users must research and consider alternative solutions for any critical apps that might not be compatible.

  • Time Consumption

Transferring data from an Android to an iPhone can be time-consuming, which may lead to user frustration. Depending on the volume of data being transferred, the process can take considerably longer than anticipated. Users may also experience delays caused by slow transfer speeds, especially when using older devices or inadequate connections. This time investment could detract from the overall experience of setting up the new iPhone, potentially impacting user satisfaction.

FAQs about Android to iPhone Transfer

1. Can I transfer WhatsApp from Android to iPhone for free?

Yes, you can transfer WhatsApp data for free using the Move to iOS app, but it only works during the initial setup of a new or factory-reset iPhone. If your iPhone is already set up, you will need a tool like MobileTrans to transfer WhatsApp without resetting your device.

2. What is the fastest way to transfer data from Android to iPhone?

The fastest method is typically a wired transfer using a desktop application like MobileTrans, which can complete the process in as little as 5-10 minutes. Wireless methods like Move to iOS or cloud services such as Google Drive are generally slower and depend on the speed and stability of your Wi-Fi connection.

3. Do I need to reset my iPhone to transfer data from Android?

It depends on the method. Using Apple's Move to iOS app requires you to transfer data during the initial iPhone setup, which means the device must be new or factory-reset. However, methods like MobileTrans, Google Drive, and Email do not require a reset and can be used anytime.

4. Can I transfer my purchased apps from Android to iPhone?

No, you cannot directly transfer apps or their purchase licenses from Android to iPhone because they are sold through different app stores (Google Play Store vs. Apple App Store). You will need to find the iOS versions of your apps on the App Store and repurchase any paid ones.

Conclusion

Successfully completing an android to iphone data transfer doesn't have to be complicated. Whether you choose MobileTrans for its comprehensive features, Move to iOS for its official Apple integration, or free methods like Google Drive for basic data transfer from android to iphone, each approach has its strengths. Select the method that best fits your data volume, time constraints, and technical comfort level for a smooth transfer android to iphone experience.

Axel Nash
Axel Nash Nov 06, 25
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