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How to easily transfer contacts from an iPhone to Android

Efe Udin

February 24, 2025

Moving from an iPhone to an Android phone can feel complicated, especially when it comes to transferring important data like contacts. Fortunately, there are simple ways to ensure you don’t lose your saved numbers during the switch. Whether you prefer using a cable for a direct transfer or a wireless method for convenience, modern tools make the process seamless. This guide walks through both approaches, helping you set up your new device without hassle.

 

 

 

Transferring contacts using a cable

One of the most efficient ways to transfer contacts from an iPhone to an Android device is by using a Lightning to USB-C cable. This method is ideal for those setting up a new Android device, as it allows you to move a variety of data, including contacts, photos, and apps.

Requirements

• Fully charged iPhone and Android phone
• A stable Wi-Fi or cellular connection
• A Lightning to USB-C cable to connect both devices

Step-by-step process

Set up your Android phone – Turn on your new Android phone and follow the on-screen instructions to begin the setup process.

Insert your SIM card – If your Android phone requires a physical SIM card, insert it now. If it uses an eSIM, follow the activation instructions provided.

Connect to Wi-Fi – Ensure the device has internet access.

Choose to copy data – During setup, you’ll be asked whether you want to copy apps and data from another device. Select Next.

Connect your iPhone – Use a Lightning to USB-C cable to connect your iPhone to the Android device.

Trust the connection – A pop-up on your iPhone will ask if you “Trust this Computer.” Select Trust and enter your passcode if prompted.

Sign in to your Google account – Log in to your Google account on your Android phone. If you don’t have one, create an account.

Select data to transfer – You’ll be presented with a list of items to move. Select Contacts, along with any other data you wish to copy.

Start the transfer – Tap Copy to begin the process. The duration will depend on the amount of data being transferred.

Disable iMessage – To prevent issues with receiving messages, go to Settings > Messages on your iPhone and turn off iMessage.

Complete setup – Once the transfer is finished, tap Done on your Android phone and proceed with the remaining setup.

This method ensures that your contacts, call history, and other essential data are moved without any issues.

Transferring contacts wirelessly

You can transfer contacts wirelessly if you don’t have a Lightning to USB-C cable. Google’s Switch to Android app simplifies the process by using a QR code to establish a connection between your iPhone and Android device.

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Requirements

• Fully charged iPhone and Android phone
• Wi-Fi access on both devices
• Switch to Android app installed on the iPhone

Step-by-step process

Turn on your Android phone – Begin setting up your new Android device and press Start when prompted.

Insert your SIM card – If your phone requires a SIM card, insert it. If using an eSIM, follow the on-screen activation steps.

Connect to Wi-Fi – Ensure both phones have access to a stable internet connection.

Choose data transfer method – When asked if you want to copy apps and data, select Next.

Skip the cable option – You will be prompted to connect a cable, but since you’re transferring wirelessly, choose No Cable.

Select iPhone as the source – Tap Switching from iPhone or iPad to proceed.

Allow permissions – Grant access to location and nearby devices when prompted.

Sign in to Google – Log into your Google account or create one if necessary.

Scan the QR code – A QR code will appear on your Android phone. Use your iPhone’s camera to scan it, which will direct you to download the Switch to Android app.

Install and open the app – Once downloaded, open the Switch to Android app on your iPhone and accept the Terms of Service.

Begin the transfer – Tap Copy Data and allow the app to analyze the available data for transfer.

Select contacts – Choose Contacts and any other data you want to copy.

Start the process – Tap Continue, and keep both phones close together until the transfer is complete.

Disable iMessage – Turn off iMessage on your iPhone to ensure smooth SMS delivery on your Android phone.

Finish setup – Tap Done on your Android phone to complete the process.

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This wireless transfer method is especially useful when moving only specific types of data, such as contacts, photos, and calendar events.

Alternative methods to transfer contacts

If neither of the above methods works for you, there are additional ways to move contacts between devices:

Using iCloud

On your iPhone, go to Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud.

Ensure that Contacts is enabled for syncing.

Visit iCloud.com on a computer and log in.

Click Contacts, then select all contacts and export them as a vCard (.vcf) file.

Transfer the vCard file to your Android phone via email or Google Drive.

Open the file on your Android and import the contacts.

Using Google Contacts Sync

On your iPhone, go to Settings > Mail > Accounts and add your Google account.

Enable Contacts sync for Google.

Log into the same Google account on your Android phone, and your contacts will sync automatically.

Troubleshooting common issues

Contacts not appearing on Android

• Ensure your Google account sync is enabled in Android settings.
• Restart both devices and check the contacts app again.
• If using iCloud, verify that Contacts syncing was turned on before exporting.

Not receiving SMS on Android

• If messages are still being routed to your iPhone, disable iMessage in Settings > Messages.
• Ask contacts to resend texts after your number is fully active on Android.

Transfer process stuck or slow

• Keep both phones plugged in during the transfer to prevent power interruptions.
• Use a strong Wi-Fi connection for wireless transfers.
• Restart both devices and try again.

Conclusion

Switching from an iPhone to an Android device doesn’t mean losing important data like contacts. Whether you use a cable connection or opt for a wireless transfer, modern tools make the process straightforward. Google’s Switch to Android app offers a convenient wireless method, while a Lightning to USB-C cable allows for a more comprehensive data transfer. Alternative methods like iCloud exports and Google account syncing provide additional options. By following these steps, you can ensure a seamless transition to your new Android phone.

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